Patna/New Delhi: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to Lotte India, Ferns N Petals Pvt. Ltd. and Kubera Foods, alleging misleading product claims and violations of food labelling standards. The companies have been asked to explain within seven days why action should not be initiated against them under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The regulator said the notices were issued following the identification of multiple instances of non-compliance with food safety and labelling regulations.
Lotte India Pulled Up Over Labelling and Vegetarian Claims
According to FSSAI, Lotte India used pre-printed labels carrying the company’s previous name, Lotte India Corporation Limited, without obtaining prior approval. The regulator said these labels did not comply with the prescribed labelling standards.
The authority also objected to the “100% vegetarian” claims made on Lotte Choco Pie with Rich Marshmallow, Lotte Choco Pie Real Orange, and Lotte Choco Pie Choco Burst, stating that the claims were misleading.
In addition, FSSAI found that the vitamin content declared on Lali Bliss Lalipop in Orange, Strawberry and Raw Mango variants did not conform to the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations.
Notice to Kubera Foods
FSSAI also issued a notice to Kubera Foods over claims made on its Soft and Fresh Cream Bun Pineapple product.
The regulator said the packaging prominently displayed claims such as “100% natural” and “no colors or flavors”, while the ingredient list disclosed the presence of preservatives, artificial food colours and added flavouring substances.
Ferns N Petals Faces Action Over Chocolate Labelling
Ferns N Petals Pvt. Ltd. has also received a notice over alleged misleading claims on its Roasted Almond Chocolate product.
According to FSSAI, the product was marketed as “premium chocolate” on the front of the packaging despite containing hydrogenated vegetable fat, raising concerns over the accuracy of the claim.
Companies Asked to Respond
FSSAI has directed all three companies to submit their responses within seven days. The regulator said failure to provide a satisfactory explanation could lead to further action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The notices form part of FSSAI’s ongoing enforcement efforts to ensure that food labels and advertising accurately represent product composition and comply with applicable food safety regulations.
