In a significant move toward promoting healthier dietary habits, the Supreme Court of India has directed the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to implement Front-of-Pack Nutrition Labels (FoPNL) on packaged food products without further delay. The directive comes amid growing concerns over India’s obesity crisis and the rising consumption of unhealthy, processed foods.
The announcement was shared by Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora, who also chairs the Parliamentary Committee on Subordinate Legislation. Posting on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Deora wrote:
“The Supreme Court has directed @fssaiindia to implement simple front-of-pack nutrition labels on packaged food. As Chair of Parliament’s Subordinate Legislation Committee, I’ve recommended studying Singapore’s clear A-to-D Nutri-Grade system.”
Deora praised the Court’s order as a crucial step that will “empower Indian consumers to make healthier choices” and help reverse the nation’s growing burden of obesity and related lifestyle diseases.
The Union Health Ministry is also supporting the initiative with complementary behavioural strategies. It has proposed the installation of “sugar and oil boards” in public spaces such as schools, offices, and government institutions. These boards will visually highlight the risks of hidden sugars and fats in everyday foods, serving as reminders to adopt healthier consumption patterns.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Deora emphasized the need for stronger regulations on unhealthy foods, both foreign and traditional. “Placing stringent regulations on foods like jalebis and samosas is a welcome step,” he stated. “As Chairman of the Subordinate Legislation Committee, which includes MPs from all parties, we are examining this issue in close collaboration with FSSAI.”
The rollout of front-of-pack labels and public awareness tools is part of the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD)—a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Health. The programme aims to encourage long-term dietary shifts by reducing the intake of excessive oil, sugar, and salt, which are key contributors to obesity, hypertension, and diabetes in India.
While the FSSAI had previously introduced voluntary labeling norms, the Supreme Court’s directive makes it clear that mandatory implementation is now expected. Health experts and consumer rights groups have long advocated for front-of-pack labeling to improve food transparency and help citizens make informed dietary choices.
The food industry now faces the challenge of adapting packaging strategies, ingredient disclosures, and marketing practices in compliance with the upcoming labeling requirements.