FSSAI moots red warning labels on packaged foods high in fat, sugar, salt

India's food safety regulator has moved to make unhealthy packaged food harder to miss. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a red hexagonal warning label to be displayed on the front of packages for products high in saturated fat, sugar, or salt.

The draft proposal is aimed at strengthening consumer awareness by making nutritional risks visible at a glance, rather than buried in fine print on the back of the pack. The move comes amid sustained public demand for clearer food labelling in the country.

Industry resistance has reportedly slowed earlier efforts to introduce such warnings. Despite government pushes, several food companies have opposed mandatory front-of-pack labels, citing concerns over branding and consumer perception. The latest proposal, however, signals a renewed regulatory push to prioritise public health over commercial interests.

If implemented, the red label would apply to a wide range of processed and packaged items, including snacks, beverages, and ready-to-eat foods. The FSSAI's initiative aligns with global trends where several countries have adopted similar warning systems to combat rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

The proposal is now expected to go through a consultation process before final rules are notified.