The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is taking a strong stance against misleading labeling practices on e-commerce platforms. In a recent directive, the regulatory body has instructed all online retailers to stop using the terms “health drink” or “energy drink” for products categorized as malt-based beverages. This move aims to ensure transparency and empower consumers to make informed choices about their dietary needs.
Unpacking the Discrepancy and Potential Implications
The FSSAI’s directive stems from a crucial gap in current food regulations. The term “health drink” lacks a definition within the framework of Indian food laws. This ambiguity allows for misinterpretations and potentially misleading marketing tactics. Similarly, “energy drinks” have a specific definition, encompassing only flavored water-based beverages, both carbonated and non-carbonated.
Malt-based beverages, on the other hand, typically fall under categories like “dairy-based beverage mix,” “cereal-based beverage mix,” or “malt-based beverage.” The FSSAI asserts that using labels like “health drink” or “energy drink” for these products misleads consumers about their actual properties and potential health benefits.
For instance, a consumer searching for a health drink to supplement their diet might be drawn to a malt beverage labeled as such. However, the product may not offer the specific health benefits the consumer is seeking. This lack of clarity can lead to disappointment and potentially harm consumer trust in online retailers.
Empowering Consumers Through Transparency and Accurate Information
The FSSAI emphasizes the importance of accurate product labeling for informed consumer choices. Misleading categorizations can create false expectations about the nutritional value and health impact of malt drinks. Consumers might be led to believe they are purchasing a product with specific health benefits when, in reality, the beverage may not offer those advantages.
The directive urges all e-commerce Food Business Operators (FBOs) to promptly rectify the issue. This involves removing or de-linking malt-based beverages from the “Health Drinks” or “Energy Drinks” sections on their platforms. Additionally, FBOs are expected to ensure proper categorization under the designated FSSAI classifications, such as “malt-based beverage.”
This move by the FSSAI promotes transparency in online food shopping and empowers consumers to make informed decisions based on accurate product information. By taking action against mislabeled malt drinks, the FSSAI is ensuring that consumers have a clear understanding of what they are purchasing and can make choices that align with their dietary needs and preferences. The focus on accurate labeling goes beyond just malt drinks and sets a precedent for a more transparent online food shopping experience for consumers across India.
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