FSSAI Lets Consumers Flag Misleading Food Labels

In a recent move aimed at enhancing transparency in food labelling, the FSSAI has introduced a new feature on its Food Safety Connect mobile app and the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal. This feature enables consumers to report potentially misleading or false claims on packaged food products by uploading images, providing product details, and sharing relevant e-commerce links. According to FSSAI, the step is part of a broader effort to promote consumer participation in food safety oversight and improve accountability among Food Business Operators (FBOs).

The functionality allows users to submit both front and back images of product packaging, including ingredients and nutrition facts, and enter the FSSAI licence number. The aim is to create a direct channel through which consumer concerns can be reported for review. The system is designed to identify questionable claims such as “natural,” “low fat,” “immunity-boosting,” or “no added sugar,” which may sometimes be inconsistent with the product’s actual composition or regulatory definitions.

While the feature reflects a proactive shift toward digital monitoring and greater stakeholder engagement, it also raises important considerations. Some experts have noted that assessing food claims often requires technical knowledge in nutrition science, labelling regulations, and permissible advertising standards—areas in which most consumers may not have adequate expertise. This raises the question of whether consumers are well-positioned to accurately evaluate such claims or if the feature might lead to a high volume of subjective or inconclusive reports.

Moreover, the ability of the system to process and respond to consumer complaints effectively will be critical. Timely verification, follow-up action, and transparency in outcomes will determine whether this tool can act as a credible deterrent against misleading labelling practices. Concerns also persist about the burden placed on consumers and the risk of diluting regulatory responsibility in favour of crowd-sourced monitoring.

This development highlights a broader issue in food safety governance: the need to balance digital tools with institutional capacity. While the app-based reporting mechanism may enhance responsiveness and public involvement, it cannot substitute comprehensive regulatory frameworks, periodic inspections, and scientifically grounded evaluations of food product claims.

The FSSAI’s move to involve consumers through digital platforms represents an important evolution in India’s approach to food regulation. However, its effectiveness will depend on how well it is integrated into a wider system of regulatory enforcement, consumer education, and industry compliance. Continued monitoring and periodic assessment of the initiative’s outcomes will be essential to ensure it contributes meaningfully to consumer protection.