{
“headline”: “FSSAI cracks down on misleading ‘natural’ and ‘healthy’ food labels”,
“content”:

India’s food safety regulator, FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India), has launched a crackdown on companies that use misleading labels such as “natural”, “healthy”, “heart-friendly” and “no added sugar” on their products.

The move comes after the regulator received numerous complaints from consumers about the lack of transparency in product labeling.

According to FSSAI, many food products are being labeled as “natural” or “healthy” when they do not actually contain any such ingredients. The regulator has warned that using such labels can be misleading and potentially harmful to consumers.

“FSSAI is committed to protecting the health and well-being of citizens by ensuring that food products are labeled accurately,” said a spokesperson for the regulator.

The crackdown includes a series of inspections at manufacturing facilities, retail stores and online platforms where food products are sold. FSSAI will also be conducting tests on samples of food products to verify their compliance with labeling regulations.

Companies that use misleading labels or fail to comply with labeling regulations face penalties, including fines and product recalls.

The regulator has also established a new task force to monitor the labeling of food products and address complaints from consumers.

FSSAI is working closely with industry associations, consumer groups and other stakeholders to ensure that food products are labeled accurately and transparently.

The move aims to protect consumers from misleading product labeling and promote trust in the food supply chain.

“FSSAI’s initiative is a step in the right direction towards ensuring transparency in food labeling,” said a consumer advocacy group.

The regulator has also announced plans to introduce new guidelines for food labeling, which will include stricter standards for claims related to health and nutrition.

The guidelines are expected to be finalized soon and will provide clearer guidance for industry players on what can and cannot be claimed on product labels.

FSSAI’s efforts are part of a broader push by regulators worldwide to crack down on misleading labeling practices in the food sector.

“FSSAI’s actions demonstrate its commitment to protecting consumers’ rights and promoting a safe and transparent food supply chain,” said an industry expert.

The regulator has also established a helpline for consumers to report complaints about misleading product labeling.

Consumers can contact the FSSAI helpline at 011-232 12345 or email their complaints to fssahelp@fssai.gov.in.

FSSAI’s efforts are expected to bring transparency and accountability in food labeling, ultimately benefiting consumers.