Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jun 22: Amid growing concerns over misleading health claims on packaged food and nutraceutical products, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has intensified scrutiny of labels and advertisements promoting products as “natural”, “healthy”, “heart-friendly” and “no added sugar”.

The food regulator has flagged several products for potentially misleading branding, labelling and promotional claims, as companies increasingly use health-focused terms to attract consumers.

The action comes days after FSSAI raised questions over claims such as “healthy”, “organic” and “zero maida”, indicating stricter monitoring of nutrition and wellness-related marketing.

Former FSSAI CEO Pawan Kumar Agarwal said the move reflected stronger enforcement of existing regulations amid increasing consumer complaints and social media scrutiny.

“India already has robust claim regulations. Notices are only the first step in a verification process and not proof of wrongdoing,” Agarwal said, adding that reputational impact often acts as a stronger deterrent for companies than financial penalties.

Among the products questioned was a mango juice marketed as having “no added sugar” despite containing 49 per cent sugarcane juice as an ingredient.

FSSAI also issued notices over “100 per cent natural” claims on instant noodles, “natural paneer” branding and health claims made by nutraceuticals, whey protein and herbal products.

A tofu product claiming “anti-cancer properties” and a cooking oil marketed as “Heart Pro” were among the products flagged by the regulator.

Health experts said such labels often create a false “health halo”, making consumers perceive products as healthier than they actually are.

Dr Arun Gupta, convener of Nutrition Advocacy in Public Interest, said labels such as “healthy”, “natural” and “no added sugar” often make ultra-processed foods appear healthier than they are.

Experts also highlighted that “no added sugar” remains one of the most misunderstood claims among consumers.

Dr V Mohan, chairman of Dr Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre, said such claims do not necessarily indicate that a product is healthy.

Dietician Monita Gahlot from All India Institute of Medical Sciences said terms such as “fat-free”, “multigrain”, “immunity booster”, “heart healthy” and “superfood” are among the most misunderstood food claims and consumers should look beyond marketing messages.

Separately, FSSAI issued notices to Bikanervala over alleged hygiene issues and to Param Dairy following complaints of fungal contamination in dairy products supplied through IRCTC catering services.