Delhi HC Asks FSSAI Not to Cancel ITC's Licence Over 100 Claims

Interim Relief for ITC

The Delhi High Court has asked the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) not to cancel ITC's licence over claims made on its food products.

The case involves regulatory scrutiny of claims and the extent to which food companies must substantiate statements about health, nutrition and other product attributes.

Dispute Over More Than 100 Claims

More than 100 claims associated with ITC's food products have come under regulatory scrutiny.

Food companies are required to ensure that claims about nutritional or health benefits are accurate, substantiated and do not mislead consumers.

FSSAI's Regulatory Action

FSSAI has been increasing its scrutiny of claims made by food businesses.

The regulator has been paying closer attention to health and nutritional claims that appear on packaging, advertisements, social media and e-commerce platforms.

ITC's Position

ITC has challenged the regulatory action and sought protection against cancellation of its licence.

The company has argued that the claims made for its products are supported by relevant evidence and that cancellation of its licence would have a significant impact on its business operations.

Wider Crackdown on Food Claims

The case comes amid a broader regulatory push against misleading health and nutrition claims in India's food industry.

FSSAI has been seeking greater accountability from companies over claims that could influence consumers' purchasing decisions.

Consumer Protection at the Centre

Terms such as “health”, “immunity”, “strength” and “nutrition” can significantly influence consumers when they choose packaged food products.

Regulators therefore require such claims to be accurate, verifiable and supported by appropriate scientific evidence.

Conclusion

The Delhi High Court has asked FSSAI not to cancel ITC's licence in connection with a dispute involving more than 100 claims on its food products.

The order provides interim relief to ITC while highlighting the wider regulatory debate over how health and nutritional claims made by food companies should be substantiated and presented to consumers.