Visible health alerts on snacks will help families make better choices
The Supreme Court of India has taken a firm stand against the rising health risks posed by processed snacks. In a recent hearing, the Bench directed the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to urgently consider front-of-pack warning labels for products containing excessive levels of sugar, salt, and saturated fats.
Justices J.B. Pardiwala and K.V. Viswanathan expressed their dissatisfaction with the current pace of regulatory changes. While reviewing a compliance affidavit, the Court noted that progress has been stagnant despite earlier warnings. The judges emphasized that clear labelling is not just a regulatory formality but a fundamental right to health for every citizen.
The Call for Transparency
Currently, most nutritional information is hidden in small print on the back of packets. The Court suggested that India should adopt international standards where visible symbols or color codes are placed right on the front. This move would allow shoppers in Odisha and across India to identify unhealthy "junk food" at a single glance without decoding complex data.
FSSAI’s Current Stand
FSSAI informed the Court that they are reviewing an "Indian Nutrition Rating" system. However, they admitted a lack of consensus among stakeholders and food manufacturers. While draft amendments were proposed in early 2025 to bold certain nutritional facts, the actual implementation of a warning system remains deferred.
Why This Matters for Public Health
India is currently battling a massive surge in non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension. Health experts argue that front-of-pack warning labels are the most effective tool to curb the consumption of harmful ingredients. Countries like Chile and the UK have already seen success with similar systems, leading to healthier buying habits.
The Supreme Court has now granted FSSAI four weeks to submit a concrete plan. This decision could force food companies to reformulate their products, making the Indian kitchen safer for the next generation.
