FSSAI Orders Dabur to Halt Sales of Products with '100%' Claims

Dabur India Limited has been ordered by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to immediately stop the sale of food products carrying allegedly misleading '100 per cent' claims. The FSSAI issued a prohibition order against Dabur, citing that the claims were ambiguous, unverifiable, and likely to mislead consumers.

The FSSAI directed Dabur to cease the sale of products bearing claims such as '100 per cent Natural', '100 per cent Pure', '100 per cent Purity Guaranteed', '100 per cent Organic', and '100 per cent Tender Coconut Water'. The regulator also noted that Dabur Himalayan Organic Apple Cider Vinegar and Dabur Organic Honey displayed the Jaivik Bharat logo without valid FSSAI organic endorsement, allegedly violating the Food Safety and Standards (Organic Foods) Regulations, 2017.

In addition, Dabur Hommade Coconut Milk was marketed with the claim '100 per cent Purity', which is not permitted for compound food products. The FSSAI directed the company to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) within 15 days.

Dabur India Limited has responded to the FSSAI order, stating that its product labels comply with the prevailing legal and regulatory framework. The company said it stands by the quality and purity of its products and has never made any misleading claims.

In a filing with the BSE and the NSE, Dabur India said it continues to maintain the highest standards of quality, food safety, and regulatory compliance in the manufacture and sale of its products. The company added that the impact on its business operations, financial position, or performance is limited to the objected food products only.

Dabur is seeking legal advice on the future course of action. The stock of the FMCG major closed 4.32 per cent down at Rs 407.40 apiece.

The FSSAI's action against Dabur is part of its efforts to regulate the food industry and protect consumers from misleading claims. The regulator has been cracking down on companies that make false or exaggerated claims about their products.

The incident highlights the importance of regulatory compliance in the food industry. Companies must ensure that their product labels are accurate and comply with regulatory requirements to avoid legal action.

The FSSAI's order against Dabur is a significant development in the food industry, and its impact will be closely watched by consumers and companies alike. The regulator's efforts to regulate the industry and protect consumers are crucial in maintaining trust and confidence in the food industry.

In conclusion, the FSSAI's order against Dabur is a reminder of the importance of regulatory compliance in the food industry. Companies must ensure that their product labels are accurate and comply with regulatory requirements to avoid legal action. The incident highlights the need for transparency and honesty in the food industry, and the FSSAI's efforts to regulate the industry are a step in the right direction.