FSSAI issues notices to food brands over misleading 'healthy' and 'organic' claims
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The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to several food companies for using misleading brand names, trade names, and product claims that may violate provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
In a statement shared on social media, the food regulator said the companies had been directed to comply with labelling and display regulations to prevent consumer deception.
Among the products flagged were those marketed using terms such as "Healthy", "Organic", "Vegan", "Zero Maida", and "Vitamin", which FSSAI said could mislead consumers about the nature or composition of the products.
The regulator questioned branding used by companies, including Healthy Master, Neuherbs, Plan B, The Health Factory, Troovy, Emami, Health Aid, Organic Wisdom, Shine Organic, Two Brothers Organic Farms, World of Organic, Storia, and Iota Water.
FSSAI said the trade name "True Vitamin" used by Neuherbs was not recognised under existing regulations and could mislead consumers. It also objected to Plan B's use of the term "Plant-Based Vegan", stating that the products had not been certified as vegan under FSSAI norms.
Products marketed by The Health Factory as "Zero Maida Whole Wheat Bread" and "Zero Maida Pizza Base" were also flagged. According to the regulator, such claims could be misleading as the products contain ingredients including wheat gluten and atta.
Several products carrying "Healthy" claims, including chips and poha products sold by different brands, were also found to potentially violate labelling regulations.
FSSAI further raised concerns about brands using the term "Organic" without possessing required certifications, such as NPOP or PGS certification, the Jaivik Bharat logo, and the necessary organic endorsement.
The regulator also objected to the branding of Storia Pomegranate Juice, stating that the product could create the impression that it is purely pomegranate juice despite containing only 4 per cent pomegranate juice concentrate.
Packaged drinking water brand Iota Water was questioned over claims related to added minerals, with FSSAI noting that regulations do not permit "added nutrient" claims when nutrients are merely restored after processing.
The authority has directed the companies concerned to ensure that product names, labels, and advertisements accurately reflect the nature of their products and do not mislead consumers.
FSSAI said food businesses are responsible for providing transparent and accurate information, and warned against marketing practices that could create false impressions about a product's health or nutritional benefits.