India Proposes Red-Label Warning on Packaged Foods Amid Obesity Fears

India's food regulator has proposed front-of-pack warning labels on packaged foods and drinks after years of public pressure. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) will implement a red-coloured hexagonal shape for products high in two or more nutrients, such as saturated fat, sugar, or salt.

The move is a major setback for companies like Coca-Cola, Nestle, and PepsiCo, which have long opposed warning labels, arguing they are confusing. However, the Supreme Court emphasized the need for action, citing India's serious health challenges, including high rates of obesity.

According to a recent study published in The Lancet, around 450 million Indians could be obese or overweight by 2050. The FSSAI said that the labelling will facilitate informed food choices, particularly in relation to children and other vulnerable groups. Currently, producers are required only to list ingredients and basic nutritional information on the back of packaging.

Despite industry pushback, the Supreme Court had told the government earlier this month to act fast. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has for years tried to implement some form of warning labels but dropped a proposal this year after companies privately opposed the measures.