Nowadays, while buying packed food, people rely on the claims written on the packet, such as 100% flour, no added sugar and digestive. Meanwhile, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a notice to a biscuit company regarding some such claims. This matter is being discussed regarding how correct and accurate the information written on the packets of food products should be. If claims made on a product do not match the actual ingredients or available scientific basis, this may mislead consumers. Therefore, investigation and monitoring of such claims is considered necessary.
FSSAI has taken this action after receiving a complaint from a customer. FSSAI has sought answers and necessary documents from the company regarding the claims made on its products like 100% flour, no added sugar and digestive. If a clear reply is not given within the stipulated time, further action can be taken against the company. Let us know what FSSAI found regarding these claims, why scientific evidence was sought on the word digestive and what can happen further in this matter.
What did FSSAI find on claims of 100% flour and no added sugar?
FSSAI investigation revealed that 100% flour is written on the packet of Eat Fit Digestive Biscuit of SAJ Food Products, whereas the quantity of flour in the product is stated to be 72.33%. Regarding this, FSSAI has expressed fear that the claim may be misleading. Apart from this, the claim of no added sugar on the packet also came under question. During testing, it was found that the product contained maltodextrin and glucose syrup solids.
FSSAI says that the company will have to provide clear information and proper explanation regarding these claims. This action was initiated after a customer’s complaint. The objective of FSSAI is to ensure that the information given on the packets of food products is correct and consumers do not get any kind of wrong information.
Why did FSSAI ask for scientific evidence on the claim of digestive biscuits helping in digestion?
FSSAI has also asked the company on what basis it has used the word digestive for its product. FSSAI has sought scientific evidence and necessary documents to support this claim.
FSSAI believes that if any health related claim is made on any food product, then it is necessary to have adequate scientific basis behind it. For this reason, the company has been asked to present evidence to prove this claim.
What further action can be taken against the company after FSSAI notice?
FSSAI has given the company 7 days to respond to the notice. During this time the company will have to submit its stand and necessary documents on all the allegations. If the company does not provide a clear response within the stipulated time or is unable to present sufficient scientific evidence to support its claims, further legal action can be taken against it under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Now the next decision in this matter will be taken after reviewing the response of the company.
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