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Supreme Court reserves verdict on FoPL implementation
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Tuesday, 29 September, 2026, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Ashwani Maindola, New Delhi
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The Supreme Court has reserved its verdict on the mandatory implementation of Front-of-Pack Labelling (FoPL) for packaged food products high in fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS).
During the hearing, the apex court rejected the implementation timeline proposed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), terming it unreasonable and excessively prolonged.
While appreciating the food safety regulator’s efforts to introduce clear health warnings on packaged items, the bench emphasised that public health is paramount and affirmed that its forthcoming order will be passed strictly in the interest of citizens.
The top court also declined FSSAI’s submission to restart the regulatory process from scratch by issuing fresh draft regulations for public consultation.
Instead, the court stated that its final judgment will be legally binding on the regulator and made it clear that FSSAI is expected to implement the order in true letter and spirit without unnecessary delays.
The court's intervention comes amid growing concerns over the rising prevalence of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and hypertension linked to ultra-processed foods.
FSSAI had previously proposed a red hexagonal warning symbol on the front of food packaging to clearly identify items exceeding thresholds for added sugar, fat, and salt.
All concerning parties have been directed to submit their final written arguments as the court prepares to deliver its final direction.
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