The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) in response to Dabur’s petition challenging the ban on “100% fruit juice” claims for reconstituted juices. Justice Sachin Datta declined to grant an urgent interim injunction but assured a detailed hearing scheduled for April 1.
Dabur, known for its Real beverage range, contested the FSSAI’s directive, arguing that the regulator had misinterpreted the Food Products Standards and Food Additives Regulations (2011) and the FSS Claims Regulations (2018). Dabur claimed that its reconstituted juices, such as Real Activ, complied with FSSAI standards. The company explained that adding water to fruit concentrate restores the original juice composition without adding sugar, which they believe justifies the “100% fruit juice” label.
The FSSAI had argued that Dabur’s claim was misleading since the water was added to return the juice to its original state, not as an additional ingredient. Dabur countered this by drawing parallels with reconstituted milk, which also includes water yet remains classified as milk.
Dabur maintained that its product labels were transparent, clearly stating “reconstituted fruit juice” alongside the “100% fruit juice” claim. The company further highlighted that it had engaged with the FSSAI to seek extensions for compliance but was instructed to adhere to the March 31 deadline.
In response to market concerns, Dabur stated that it had begun modifying labels. The company claimed the FSSAI’s notification had caused significant disruption in the trade, with some partners halting purchases temporarily. Dabur argued that the directive was legally flawed and had unnecessarily disturbed the market.
While declining to impose an immediate stay, the court acknowledged the complexity of the matter and confirmed that a detailed hearing would take place on April 1.