The Supreme Court on Thursday criticized the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India for failing to implement front-of-pack warning labels on packaged foods that would indicate levels of sugar, salt and saturated fat. A bench led by Justice J.B. Pardiwala questioned whether the regulator wished to prevent children from developing healthy habits. The matter arose from a petition by the Kerala-based NGO 3S and Our Health Society, which seeks central government directions for such labeling. The justice expressed frustration that little progress had occurred despite prior orders and noted external pressures on the agency. An FSSAI affidavit stated the proposed format aligns with international standards and offers simplified nutritional details to consumers. Officials noted that many traditional food businesses could be affected by the changes.
