FSSAI CEO On Misleading Food Ads, Brand Crackdowns And Pressure From Industry Lobby

FSSAI CEO Rajit Punhani says the food regulator is cracking down on misleading advertisements and claims that can confuse consumers about the health benefits of packaged products. In an exclusive conversation with India Today Group’s Sneha Mordani, Punhani discusses misleading food claims, including products marketed as healthy or promoted using limited ingredients. He says FSSAI has already issued notices to brands and will continue taking action where required. Punhani also acknowledges pressure from different sections of the food industry but says consumer support helps the regulator resist such pressure. He stresses that enforcement must go hand in hand with greater consumer awareness about food choices.