FSSAI issues notice to SAJ Food Products over alleged misleading "Eat Fit Digestive Biscuits" claims
New Delhi, June 27
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has issued a notice to SAJ Food Products over alleged misleading claims on its "Eat Fit Digestive Biscuits", following a consumer complaint regarding discrepancies in labelling and compliance with food safety advertising regulations.
According to the notice, the complaint alleged that the product's front label claimed "100% Atta", while the ingredients list mentioned only 72.33 per cent atta, thereby making the claim potentially misleading for consumers.
During its examination, the FSSAI regulator observed multiple non-compliances in the product's claims. FSSAI noted that the "No Added Sugar" claim was misleading, as the product reportedly contains maltodextrin and glucose syrup solids.
It further observed that the "100% Atta" claim did not align with regulatory requirements, stating that the product contains other ingredients and additives. The authority also referred to its advisory discouraging the use of "100%" claims on packaged food items.
FSSAI additionally flagged the product name "Eat Fit Digestive", stating that it requires scientific justification under the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising & Claims) Regulations, 2018.
The company has been directed to furnish its explanation within seven days, detailing why action should not be initiated under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's sad that even health-conscious products like these are misleading. My mother started buying these thinking they're healthy, and now we come to know about maltodextrin and glucose syrup! Regulation is needed, but we also need to be more careful as consumers.
Finally, some action! But why only now? This is a classic case of "brand shaming." The company will probably give an explanation, pay a fine and continue with the same or rebrand it as "new improved formula" - same product, different packaging. Been seeing this pattern since years!
I am a dietitian. Honestly, most "digestive biscuits" in India are just regular biscuits with a fancy health label. The "Eat Fit" name is also a joke - where's the science? FSSAI should also check their other products like the multigrain variants. Time to clean up the health food market! 💪
As a nutritionist, I agree with the criticism of the "no added sugar" claim. Maltodextrin is essentially processed starch with high glycemic index, sometimes worse than regular sugar! The FDA-like strictness is needed in India. 7 days for explanation is too lenient - should have been stricter!
I actually liked these biscuits 😅 They are not as sweet as Parle or Britannia. But yes, if the label is wrong, it's wrong. We need more consumer awareness about reading ingredient lists. Let's hope this leads to better transparency in the food industry.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.