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Supreme Court Gives FSSAI Final Three-Month Extension for Front-of-Pack Label Recommendations

Consumer advocates urge bold warning symbols over star ratings ahead of the expert panel’s final recommendations.

Packaged Food | Image: Unsplash
The Supreme Court of India. (File Photo)
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Overview

  • A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan granted FSSAI a last three-month extension, warning of contempt proceedings for any further delay in filing its report.
  • The expert committee has reviewed more than 14,000 public comments and held consultations in Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad and Kolkata to refine the draft labeling rules.
  • Public health experts warn that the proposed Indian Nutrition Rating star system could mask high sugar, salt and fat content and support clear warning symbols like Chile’s black octagons.
  • Following criticism of industry dominance, FSSAI broadened stakeholder engagement to include MSMEs, dairy cooperatives, women’s organisations and self-help groups.
  • The panel must now balance consumer protection goals with industry feedback and submit its final recommendations within three months or face legal action.