In the FSSAI’s survey between 2021 and 2022, substandard dietary supplements gained popularity among fitness enthusiasts.
In a bid to curb the sale and distribution of substandard dietary supplements, FSSAI conducted the survey between 2021 and 2022. Supplements have gained popularity among fitness enthusiasts.
The results were disturbing, as of the 144,345 samples tested during the survey, 4,890 were found to be unsafe, and 16,582 were found to be substandard.
Another 11,482 samples were found to have labelling defects and misleading information on the packaging. Protein powder is usually consumed as a dietary supplement for building muscle, and formulations typically involve a wide variety of additives.
FSSAI has initiated criminal proceedings against at least 4,900 defaulters, with civil cases being initiated in 28,906 other cases.
Separate from dietary supplements, the food regulator has also been working with stakeholders to implement curbs on the circulation of nutraceuticals, which are sold as alternatives to pharmaceuticals and have properties of both pharmaceuticals and nutritional products, and to regulate mislabeling of ingredients.
In 2016, the regulator began the process of reigning in the sale of these products by way of formulating rules for eight categories of foods, which included carrying detailed descriptions of their composition.
The categories involved were health supplements, nutraceuticals, foods for special dietary use, foods for special medical purposes, specialty foods containing plants or botanicals, foods containing probiotics and prebiotics, and novel foods.
Under the Food Safety Standards and Regulations, 2016, these foods were not permitted to contain hormones, steroids, or psychotropic ingredients.
These foods may use approved colours and additives as permitted in Schedule VF of these regulations, and natural, nature-identical, or synthetic flavours as permitted in the Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011.
The quantity of nutrients added to these food items shall not exceed the recommended daily allowance as specified by the Indian Council of Medical Research and accepted by FSSAI. The rules came into effect on January 1, 2018.
FSSAI also roped in the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) to establish a Resource Center for Health Supplements and Nutraceuticals (ReCHaN), in partnership with the International Alliance of Dietary and Food Supplement Associations, and initiated dialogue with stakeholders on accepting internationally recognised practices.
Consumption of health supplements and micronutrients without medical supervision can lead to health consequences, and if the quality of the product is substandard, it can further increase the harmful effects on your kidneys and other vital organs. FSSAI has become strict with regulatory compliance.