FSSAI to roll out red hexagonal warnings on packaged foods
Big news for snack lovers: FSSAI is planning a phased rollout of red hexagonal warning labels on packaged foods, with Phase I covering products high in two or more of the specified nutrients, along with specified sweetened beverages, and Phase II extending warnings to products high in any one of the nutrients.
These warnings would show up right on the front of packs to help people spot unhealthy options easily.
The move comes as India faces rising issues like childhood obesity and the proposal was intervened in by the Supreme Court in August.
Supreme Court cites Chile Canada labels
The new labels will say things like "HIGH FAT," "HIGH SUGAR," or "HIGH SALT."
First, they'll appear on products loaded with two or more of these nutrients; later, even single offenders will get tagged.
The Supreme Court pointed out that countries like Chile and Canada have used similar front-of-package nutrition symbols to help people make better choices, so India might be next in line for clearer food alerts.