FSSAI Initiates Proceedings Against Zepto

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has begun regulatory action against Zepto Marketplace Private Limited following allegations of delivering expired products. A complaint surfaced on social media platform X, claiming that two packets of besan, or gram flour, were delivered after their designated use-by date. The packets were marked with “USE BY: 12092026,” indicating they were past their expiry date.

FSSAI has requested that Zepto verify the complaint and provide comprehensive details regarding the order, delivery, warehouse, seller, and product involved. The authority has also sought an explanation for the alleged lapse, alongside information on corrective measures that the company plans to implement. These measures include withdrawing the affected stock, notifying customers, and issuing refunds where applicable.

The notice aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding the order fulfilment and delivery process, as well as the steps Zepto intends to take to resolve the complaint. This scrutiny highlights the importance of compliance with food safety regulations in the quick-commerce sector.

Concerns Over Misleading Labels in Bakery Products

In a separate case, FSSAI has issued a notice to Bakelite Food Processing Private Limited regarding its product, “Malpani’s Bake-Lite Puneri Cream Roll,” which is sold through platforms such as Blinkit and Zepto. The regulator expressed concerns that the product’s name and presentation might mislead consumers about its ingredients, particularly regarding the presence of dairy products.

The notice pointed out that the ingredients listed included refined wheat flour, hydrogenated vegetable fat, margarine, and sugar, but did not mention any dairy components. FSSAI questioned the appropriateness of using the term “cream,” suggesting it could create a false impression about the nature of the filling. This case raises significant questions about whether food product names and presentations accurately reflect their ingredients, which is crucial for informed consumer choices.

Such regulatory actions aim to ensure that consumers are not misled by product names and that they can trust the information provided on labels. The implications of this case extend to broader issues of transparency and accountability in food marketing.

Health Claims Under Investigation for Supplement Products

FSSAI has also raised concerns regarding health-related claims associated with cranberry supplement products marketed by BMS Lifescience and Healthyhey Foods LLP. In the case of BMS Lifescience’s “Haog’s Cranberry Urinary Tract Health Capsules,” the authority noted an expired registration certificate, as well as potentially misleading claims related to health benefits.

The notice questioned the use of the FSSAI logo, which could imply certification or endorsement, and sought clarification on whether the product’s claims complied with regulatory requirements. Similar issues were identified with cranberry extract capsules from Healthyhey Foods LLP, which also faced scrutiny over labelling discrepancies and unapproved claims.

The investigation into these health claims underscores the necessity for transparency in the marketing of food supplements, particularly when such claims can significantly influence consumer perceptions and decisions regarding health products.

Adjudication Proceedings Against Storia Foods

FSSAI has initiated adjudication proceedings against Storia Foods & Beverages Private Limited concerning labelling claims on its pomegranate juice. The regulator highlighted that the product contained only 4 per cent pomegranate juice concentrate and 12 per cent apple juice concentrate, raising questions about the accuracy of the claim “Equivalent to 100% Fruit Juice (Reconstituted).”

Additionally, the authority scrutinised the claim of “No Added Sugar,” particularly in relation to naturally occurring fruit sugars. The proceedings focus on how the product’s composition and sugar content are communicated to consumers, as such claims can significantly affect buyer understanding and purchasing decisions.

The adjudication represents a distinct phase of regulatory action, separate from the notices issued to other companies. The companies involved have been directed to respond to the notices and take necessary actions as specified, highlighting the ongoing importance of compliance with food safety regulations in India.

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