The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has raised concerns over non-compliance with mandatory labelling requirements for nutraceuticals, health supplements and other specialised food products. The regulator has warned food businesses to follow prescribed labelling standards, including compulsory warning statements, to avoid regulatory action.
In an advisory shared through social media on Oct 19, FSSAI highlighted that several Food Business Operators (FBOs) involved in manufacturing and selling these products have failed to comply with mandatory labelling provisions, particularly those applicable to plant and botanical ingredients and their extracts.
Regulations Cover Multiple Categories of Specialised Foods
The advisory refers to the Food Safety and Standards (Health Supplements, Nutraceuticals, Food for Special Dietary Use, Food for Special Medical Purpose, Functional Food and Novel Food) Regulations, 2016.
These regulations establish standards for the manufacture, distribution and sale of products such as nutraceuticals, health supplements, foods intended for special dietary or medical purposes, and products containing prebiotic or probiotic ingredients.
The framework also specifies permissible limits and conditions for using plant-based and botanical ingredients, whether individually or in combination with other substances.
Mandatory Warnings and Restrictions on Medical Claims
FSSAI has emphasised that product labels must carry the required warning statements in a prominent, clear and legible manner.
The regulations also prohibit manufacturers from making medicinal claims or suggesting that these food products can cure diseases.
According to the regulator, appropriate labelling is necessary to ensure that consumers receive accurate information about product composition, intended use and relevant precautions.
Food Businesses Directed to Ensure Compliance
The advisory draws attention to the responsibility of manufacturers and sellers to ensure that their products meet applicable regulatory standards before being marketed.
FSSAI has stressed the importance of displaying mandatory warnings, particularly to reduce the risk of inappropriate consumption among vulnerable population groups.
The regulator’s warning signals increased attention to labelling compliance in India’s nutraceutical and health supplement sector, where businesses are required to follow prescribed food safety standards and avoid misleading health-related claims.
