New Delhi, 14 June (H.S.): The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to eight food business operators for allegedly using misleading brand names, trade names and product claims that could create a false impression about the health benefits of their products.

The action was announced by the food regulator on Sunday through its official social media platforms. According to FSSAI, the notices were issued under provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which prohibits misleading advertisements and deceptive labeling practices in the food sector.

The companies that received notices are Emami Healthy & Tasty, Health Aid, Troovy, The Healthy Factory, Healthy Master, Healthy Choice, Plan B and Neuherbs.

FSSAI said the notices relate to the use of terms such as “healthy” and similar expressions in brand names, product descriptions and promotional claims that may influence consumer perception without adequate scientific substantiation or regulatory approval. The authority is examining whether such branding and labeling practices comply with existing food safety and consumer protection regulations.

The regulator has been strengthening scrutiny of food packaging and marketing claims in recent years as part of broader efforts to ensure transparency and prevent consumers from being misled about the nutritional value or health benefits of food products.

Under Indian food safety regulations, food businesses are required to ensure that product labels, advertisements and promotional materials are truthful, accurate and supported by evidence. Claims that exaggerate health benefits or create an incorrect impression regarding the nature, quality or nutritional value of a product can attract regulatory action.

Industry observers note that the latest move reflects FSSAI’s growing focus on front-of-pack communication and marketing practices, particularly in segments where products are promoted as healthier alternatives to conventional foods.

The companies concerned are expected to respond to the notices and provide explanations regarding their branding and product claims. Further action, if any, will depend on the regulator’s review of those responses and its assessment of compliance with food safety and labeling standards.

The development marks another step in FSSAI’s ongoing efforts to improve consumer awareness, strengthen food labeling standards and ensure that health-related claims made by food manufacturers are accurate and not misleading.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar