SC On Packaged Food Labels : ‘What’s in Kurkure Matters More Than Labels’
The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed the Centre to form an expert committee to review and recommend changes to existing regulations on the labelling of packaged food products, amid concerns over health risks linked to excessive sugar, salt, and saturated fats.
The directive came while the top court was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) that sought mandatory front-of-pack labels displaying the quantity of unhealthy ingredients in packaged foods. The PIL emphasized that such warnings are crucial for promoting informed consumer choices and combating rising rates of lifestyle diseases.
During the hearing, Justice J.B. Pardiwala made a light-hearted observation, saying, “You have grandchildren. Allow them to decide this petition, then you will get to know what’s Kurkure. They don’t see any content, they just see what’s in the packet.” The remark triggered laughter in court but also underscored the larger issue of consumer behaviour, especially among children.
The court was informed that the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is already considering amendments to the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020. These amendments are reportedly being shaped in alignment with evolving global practices.
The Centre, represented by its counsel, told the bench that an affidavit had been filed by the Director of FSSAI outlining the regulatory body’s ongoing consultation process. It also stated that more than 14,000 public comments had been received in response to the proposed changes.
“We have taken note of the affidavit filed by the FSSAI Director. Based on this, we direct the government to constitute an expert committee to study the matter and submit its recommendations within three months,” the bench observed.
The petitioner, appearing in person, urged the court to expedite the implementation of clear front-of-pack labelling to ensure transparency and consumer protection.
Experts in public health have long advocated for stricter labelling norms. According to studies, clear and visible front-of-pack warnings can significantly reduce the consumption of high-sugar and high-fat products, particularly among vulnerable groups like children and adolescents.
The court’s directive sets the stage for potential regulatory reform aimed at improving food transparency in India. Once the expert committee submits its findings, the government may consider amending existing rules to better protect consumer health.
