FSSAI Proposes Red Warning Labels to Help Consumers Make Informed Food Choices
New Delhi, Aug 29: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed red warning labels on the front of packaged foods and beverages that are high in sugar, salt or fat. The move is aimed at making nutritional information easier to understand and helping consumers make informed choices.
Pic Credit: Pexel
Under the proposal, products meeting the specified criteria could carry clear warnings such as “HIGH SUGAR”, “HIGH SALT”, “HIGH FAT” or “HIGHLY SWEETENED BEVERAGE”. The prominent labels would allow shoppers to identify products with higher levels of these nutrients more easily while buying food.
The proposal is particularly important for improving awareness among families and children, who may often choose packaged snacks and drinks without checking their nutritional content.
For consumers, the proposed labels can serve as a simple reminder to look beyond taste and packaging and check what a product contains. Reading nutrition information, comparing similar products and limiting foods that are high in sugar, salt and fat can support healthier everyday choices.
The move also highlights the importance of greater transparency in food labelling. Clear information on the front of a package can make it easier for consumers to understand nutritional risks without having to search through detailed information on the back.
As discussions on the proposed labelling system continue, consumers are encouraged to develop the habit of checking nutrition labels and choosing a balanced diet that includes fresh fruits, vegetables and other nutritious foods.
The proposed warning system is expected to strengthen consumer awareness and encourage more informed food choices, while supporting wider efforts to promote healthier eating habits in India.