The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to five companies over claims made in advertisements and promotional materials for child nutrition products and infant foods. The companies include Nestlé India, Abbott Healthcare, Nutricia International, Mead Johnson Nutrition India and Zydus Wellness Products. The food safety regulator has sought scientific evidence to substantiate claims related to digestion, immunity, children’s height, brain development and other nutritional benefits. It has also raised concerns about the promotion of infant food products on social media.
FSSAI has sought clarification from Nestlé India regarding claims made on the packaging and promotional materials of Lactogen Pro-1 powdered infant formula. The product’s marketing stated that its whey protein is easy to digest, prompting the regulator to request supporting scientific evidence and relevant documentation. The regulator has also questioned claims associated with Nestlé’s NAN EXCELLA PRO Stage 1 product. Promotional material suggested that five human milk oligosaccharides in the product help support the normal immune system. FSSAI has asked the company to explain the scientific basis and regulatory acceptability of the claim.
Zydus Wellness Products has also received a notice concerning claims made on the packaging and online promotional materials for its Complan nutritional drink. FSSAI has questioned claims relating to children’s height and growth, as well as those concerning concentration, memory, immunity and overall development. The company has been asked to provide scientific evidence supporting these claims and clarify whether its promotional materials comply with applicable food safety and advertising regulations.
FSSAI has directed the concerned companies and other parties to submit their responses and relevant supporting documents within the prescribed timeframe. They have also been asked to explain why action should not be initiated under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the applicable regulations. Further action will depend on the responses received and the regulator’s assessment of the scientific evidence and compliance with advertising requirements.
