Tag: FSSAI

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FSSAI sends notices to beverage firms

India’s food safety regulator has issued notices to six leading energy drink manufacturers over what it describes as misleading promotional claims made on product labels and in advertisements. The action is part of a wider effort by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to ensure that companies do not exaggerate the health or performance benefits of their products.

Among the companies that received notices are Red Bull India, PepsiCo India, Campa Energy, Monster Energy, Celsius and Hell Energy. The regulator has asked the companies to explain claims suggesting that their drinks improve energy, boost physical performance or enhance mental alertness without adequate scientific evidence.

According to officials, the notices were issued after a review found that several marketing messages could mislead consumers into believing the products offer health or performance benefits beyond what has been scientifically established. FSSAI has directed the companies to justify these claims or modify them to comply with food safety and labelling regulations.

The move comes amid growing concern over the rising popularity of energy drinks, especially among teenagers and young adults. Health experts have repeatedly cautioned that many of these beverages contain high levels of caffeine and sugar, which may pose health risks if consumed excessively.

The regulator’s action is aimed at promoting greater transparency in food marketing and ensuring consumers receive accurate information before making purchasing decisions. Officials said food businesses are responsible for ensuring that product labels and advertisements are truthful, evidence-based and do not mislead the public.

The companies are expected to respond to the notices within the stipulated timeframe. Depending on their replies, FSSAI may direct changes to product packaging or promotional material and could initiate further regulatory action if violations are established.

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FSSAI issues notices to KFC, Nestlé and Flipkart

India’s food safety regulator has issued notices to three major brands , KFC India, Nestlé India and Flipkart, following consumer complaints related to food hygiene and alleged pest contamination.

The action was taken by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India after complaints were received through the National Consumer Helpline. The regulator said the notices were issued to seek responses from the companies regarding grievances raised by consumers.

According to reports, the complaints involved concerns about hygiene standards and the presence of foreign objects or pests in food products supplied or sold through the companies. While the exact details of individual complaints have not been publicly disclosed, the regulator has asked the firms to investigate the issues and provide explanations.

The move highlights growing scrutiny of food safety practices as authorities seek to strengthen consumer protection and improve confidence in food products and services. FSSAI regularly monitors complaints received through various channels and can seek clarification from companies when concerns are raised about product quality or safety.

The notices do not amount to a finding of wrongdoing. They are part of the regulator’s process of examining complaints and gathering information before deciding whether any further action is required. The companies concerned may respond with details of their internal investigations, quality-control procedures and corrective measures, if any.

Consumer complaints relating to food quality, packaging and contamination have increasingly come under the spotlight as online food delivery and e-commerce platforms expand their reach across the country. Regulators have stressed the importance of maintaining strict safety standards throughout the supply chain, from manufacturing and storage to delivery.

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Newspaper packaging poses health risk, warns FSSAI

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed food business operators across the country to stop using newspapers for packaging, wrapping and serving food, citing potential health hazards linked to newspaper ink and printing chemicals.

The advisory targets a long-standing practice commonly seen at street food stalls, eateries and small food outlets, where items such as samosas, pakoras, vadas and snacks are often wrapped in newspaper sheets. According to FSSAI, newspapers are not food-grade materials and may contain harmful substances that can contaminate food.

The regulator warned that printing inks used in newspapers contain chemicals, pigments and solvents that may transfer to food, particularly when it is hot, oily or moist. Such contamination can expose consumers to substances that may have adverse health effects over time.

FSSAI officials said recycled paper used in newspaper production may also contain residues of chemicals, dyes, adhesives and other contaminants. These substances can migrate into food and compromise food safety standards. The authority emphasised that consumers are often unaware of the risks associated with direct contact between food and printed paper.

The food safety regulator has instructed food business operators, including restaurants, street vendors, caterers and food delivery services, to discontinue the use of newspapers and similar printed materials for food packaging and serving purposes. Businesses have been advised to use food-grade packaging materials that comply with safety regulations.

FSSAI stated that ensuring safe packaging is an important part of maintaining food hygiene and protecting public health. The authority also urged state food safety departments to create awareness among food vendors and encourage compliance with food safety norms.

Food safety experts have welcomed the advisory, noting that the practice of using newspapers for food packaging remains widespread despite repeated warnings over the years. They said the move could help reduce the risk of chemical contamination and improve overall food safety standards.

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