Bournvita maker acts after notice as FSSAI steps up crackdown on misleading claims

Mondelez India Meals, maker of Bournvita and Cadbury merchandise, has withdrawn well being and nutrient-comparison claims flagged by the Meals Security and Requirements Authority of India (FSSAI), together with associated commercials from e-commerce platforms, because the regulator steps up motion in opposition to deceptive meals claims.

The motion is a part of a wider drive by which FSSAI has issued greater than 150 notices to meals firms over deceptive commercials, false claims and labelling violations. Nestlé India, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola India, Abbott India, Crimson Bull India, Danone India, Monster Vitality India, Ferrero India and Kenvue are amongst firms named by the regulator.

Bournvita had come below scrutiny in 2023 over its sugar content material and dietary claims, significantly its advertising and marketing to kids.

The newest corrective-action drive has additionally prompted Amway India to take away “100%” from its “100% Pure Coconut Oil” packaging and promotional materials and drop the “Vitality Drink” descriptor from its caffeinated XS vary. Keralam-based Juza Meals has agreed to withdraw claims together with “increase immunity”, “assist stronger bones” and comparative calcium claims from its baby-food merchandise.

The motion follows FSSAI’s Could 2025 advisory asking meals companies to discontinue the usage of “100%” on labels, packaging and promotional materials, arguing that the time period may suggest absolute purity or superiority.

The FSSAI has additionally widened enforcement to e-commerce platforms and food-service institutions, issuing 12 notices to e-commerce firms and greater than 30 to food-service institutions, together with main restaurant chains.

The regulator’s newest motion underlines its deal with making certain that meals claims are substantiated and don’t mislead shoppers. The problem, nonetheless, shall be to make sure sustained compliance after firms withdraw or modify the claims.