The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to eight food companies for allegedly using misleading brand names, trade names, packaging and product claims that could violate food safety and consumer protection regulations. The action is part of the regulator’s ongoing efforts to curb deceptive marketing practices and ensure that consumers receive accurate information about food products.

Among the companies that reportedly received notices are Emami Healthy & Tasty, Neuherbs, Troovy and Plan B, along with four other food businesses. The notices focus on the use of terms such as “healthy,” “nutritious,” and similar health related descriptions that may create a misleading impression about a product’s nutritional value without adequate scientific substantiation.

The move follows increasing regulatory scrutiny of front of pack claims, health related marketing messages and branding practices in India’s rapidly expanding packaged food sector. FSSAI regulations prohibit food businesses from making false, misleading or unsubstantiated claims that could influence consumer purchasing decisions. Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, companies are required to ensure that product labels, advertisements and brand names do not misrepresent the nature, quality or health benefits of food products.

The regulator has been strengthening its oversight of food labelling in recent years amid growing concerns over lifestyle diseases, obesity and rising consumption of ultra processed foods. According to estimates by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), unhealthy diets are among the leading risk factors contributing to non communicable diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity, which account for nearly two thirds of deaths in India.

India’s packaged food market, valued at over USD 70 billion, has witnessed rapid growth driven by urbanization, changing dietary habits and increasing consumer preference for convenience foods. As a result, health claims and wellness focused branding have become key marketing tools for food manufacturers. Regulatory authorities, however, have repeatedly emphasized that such claims must be supported by scientific evidence and comply with established food safety standards.

Consumer advocacy groups have welcomed the regulator’s action, stating that misleading health claims can create confusion among consumers attempting to make informed dietary choices. Public health experts have also called for stricter enforcement of food labelling regulations to improve transparency and help address the growing burden of nutrition related diseases.

The latest notices signal FSSAI’s intent to tighten compliance across the food industry and reinforce accountability in product marketing. Companies that fail to comply with labelling and advertising regulations may face penalties or further regulatory action under applicable food safety laws.

The development underscores the increasing focus on consumer protection, nutritional transparency and responsible food marketing as India continues to strengthen its food safety framework