Food Labelling Exemptions: A Scientific and Comprehensive Analysis

Nutrition constitutes a vital element of health and development. In India, there is an alarming rise in the food industry and this has led to an increased uptake of foods high in fats, salt, and sugar (HFSS) and ultra-processed foods. Food labelling is a procedure where a label, containing printed, written, or graphic materials, is provided with the food thereby facilitating communication between the consumer and the manufacturers. In 2022, FSSAI has exempted specific food products from the stringent requirements of detailed nutritional labelling. Exemptions are applied to commodities such as raw agricultural products, liquid products in reusable bottles, alcoholic beverages, self-serve condiments, and modified meals as per the customer's request, single unit packaging, and packets under 100 sq. cm. In conclusion, these exemptions strike a balance between reducing the regulatory burden for smaller packaging and ensuring consumers' right to essential information.