Ministry Issues Advisory to Ensure Proper Categorization of Food Products
In response to concerns raised by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has instructed all e-commerce companies to remove drinks and beverages, including popular brands like Bournvita, from the category of ‘health drinks’ on their platforms. The move aims to address misclassifications of food products and ensure clarity and transparency in consumer choices.
FSSAI’s Call for Corrective Action Prompting E-commerce Firms to Rectify Misclassifications
Following observations of misclassification of food products on e-commerce platforms, particularly those labeled under ‘proprietary food,’ the FSSAI has urged e-commerce companies to rectify this discrepancy. Notably, products categorized as ‘health drinks’ or ‘energy drinks’ do not align with standardized definitions under existing food safety regulations. Consequently, the FSSAI has mandated e-commerce platforms to promptly reclassify such products to provide accurate information to consumers.
Enhancing Consumer Awareness and Choice Ensuring Well-Informed Consumer Decision-making
The corrective measures undertaken by e-commerce platforms aim to enhance transparency and eliminate misleading information regarding the nutritional content and functional properties of food products. By placing products in appropriate categories as per regulatory standards, consumers can make informed decisions, thereby safeguarding their health and well-being.
