The Supreme Court expresses concern about public health and seeks greater clarity on front-of-pack labelling for packaged foods, particularly those high in salt, sugar and fat. The court links the issue to rising obesity and increased exposure of children to ultra-processed and junk foods.
The outlets report that the court discusses the need for prominent, easy-to-understand consumer warnings so shoppers can make informed choices. The Times of India and other coverage state that the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a front-of-pack system using red hexagonal warning labels, while the court continues to review the plea for mandatory warning labels. NDTV adds that the court has asked parties to study the order once it is uploaded and posted the matter for further hearing.
Business Line, The Hindu, NDTV and Times of India all describe the court’s focus on food safety information through front-of-pack warnings, with particular attention to the health of children and consumer understanding, while differing mainly in the emphasis placed on the court’s procedural steps and the reference to FSSAI’s proposed labelling design.
