From Kitchen Staples to Controversy: Dabur Faces FSSAI Ban

Dabur products, including ghee and honey, have come under the spotlight after FSSAI action raised concerns over food safety standards and quality checks.
The move has sparked discussions about regulatory monitoring of popular packaged food brands in India.

Research shows that food safety remains a challenge in India. In 2022-23, FSSAI tested 1.77 lakh food samples, with 44,626 found non-conforming, highlighting the importance of strict quality checks and regulations.

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Why Did FSSAI Take Action Against Dabur Products?

FSSAI action against Dabur products was linked to concerns over misleading food claims, organic certification labeling, and compliance with food safety regulations.

The move highlights the importance of strict quality checks, FSSAI guidelines, and consumer safety standards for popular packaged food products like Dabur ghee and honey.

Dabur Ghee and Honey Under Food Safety Scanner

Dabur ghee, honey, and other packaged food products like edible oils, apple cider vinegar, virgin coconut oil, sesame oil, coconut water and coconut milk, came under FSSAI scrutiny over concerns related to product labeling claims, including the use of terms such as “100% Pure,” “100% Natural,” and “100% Organic.”

According to the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising & Claims) Regulations, 2018, food claims must be truthful, clear, meaningful, and not misleading.

FSSAI has stated that the use of absolute terms such as “100%” is not defined under existing food regulations and may create ambiguity, potentially misleading consumers.

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The regulator also raised concerns over the display of the Jaivik Bharat organic logo on certain products without the required organic endorsement.

The action highlights the importance of transparent labeling, food quality testing, and compliance with FSSAI standards to protect consumer safety.

FSSAI Seeks Corrective Action From Dabur

FSSAI stated that similar concerns had been communicated to Dabur earlier regarding the use of certain “100%” product claims.

The regulator noted that satisfactory corrective action was not taken following the previous communication.

Following the latest directive, FSSAI has asked Dabur to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) within 15 days, detailing steps taken to address the reported labeling and compliance concerns.

FSSAI Food Safety Checks: How Product Quality Is Evaluated

FSSAI ensures food quality and consumer safety through regular surveillance, product testing, inspections, and compliance checks.

Food samples are analyzed in approved laboratories to assess parameters such as safety, quality, adulteration, ingredients, and labeling accuracy.

Regulatory checks also evaluate whether food companies follow standards related to packaging, advertising claims, and certification requirements.

These measures help identify non-compliant products and ensure that packaged foods meet India’s food safety regulations before reaching consumers.

Why Food Labeling Rules Matter for Consumer Safety

Food labeling rules help consumers make informed choices by providing accurate information about ingredients, nutritional value, certifications, and product claims.

Regulations set by FSSAI ensure that food companies follow transparent labeling practices and avoid misleading statements that may influence purchasing decisions.

Clear and accurate labels also help consumers identify certified organic products, allergens, expiry details, and quality standards, while supporting better food safety awareness and trust in packaged food products.

The FSSAI action on Dabur products highlights the importance of accurate labeling, verified claims, and strict compliance in the packaged food industry.

It is important to be cautious of absolute claims like “100% pure” or “100% natural” and focus on transparent labeling and verified certifications.

Reading the back-of-pack information and comparing product details can help consumers choose safer, better-quality food products.

“Trust is built drop by drop, but lost in a moment.”

This serves as a reminder that transparency and accountability are essential for maintaining consumer confidence in food brands.

References:

1. FSSAI directs FBOs to remove claim of 100% Fruit Juices from the label and advertisement of fruit juices – (https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2022681&utm®=48&lang=2)
2. Measures taken by the government to stop food adulteration – (https://www.pib.gov.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=2101739&lang=2®=48&utm)

Source-Medindia

Source-Medindia