The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to several prominent food companies and brands over consumer complaints, alleged misleading product claims, labelling violations and food safety concerns. Among the entities that have received notices are Bikanervala, Marico Ltd and Param Dairy, as the regulator intensifies its oversight of compliance with food safety regulations.
According to FSSAI, multiple food business operators (FBOs) have been found facing allegations related to potential violations of provisions under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The issues under review include misleading brand names, questionable product claims, labelling irregularities and complaints raised by consumers. The regulator has directed the concerned companies to furnish detailed explanations and undertake corrective actions where necessary.
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The notice issued to Bikanervala stems from a consumer complaint alleging hygiene concerns at one of its food service establishments. According to the complaint, a staff member was reportedly seen consuming food inside the service or kitchen area during operational hours. FSSAI noted that such conduct raises concerns regarding hygiene standards and sanitary practices within food preparation and service environments.
The regulator has sought details of the company’s internal investigation into the complaint and requested information regarding standard operating procedures (SOPs) governing employee hygiene and conduct in food preparation, storage and service areas. If the allegations are found to be substantiated, Bikanervala has been asked to provide details of disciplinary action taken against the concerned personnel. The company has also been directed to explain the corrective measures implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Param Dairy has also come under regulatory scrutiny following a consumer complaint alleging fungal contamination in dahi and rabri products supplied through IRCTC catering services. FSSAI has sought information regarding the supply chain, procurement source and quality-control procedures associated with the products in question.
The dairy company has further been asked to explain its inventory management practices and the safeguards in place to ensure that expired or compromised food products do not reach consumers. The regulator has directed the company to submit an Action Taken Report outlining the measures adopted following the complaint and the steps taken to prevent recurrence of similar incidents.
Marico Ltd has received a notice concerning claims made in connection with its product, “Saffola Total Heart Pro-Multi Source Cooking Oil.” FSSAI stated that the use of the term “Heart Pro” and associated heart-health imagery could potentially create the impression that the product itself provides specific cardiovascular health benefits. The regulator has sought scientific substantiation for such claims.
In addition, FSSAI has requested supporting evidence for marketing statements displayed on the product packaging, including claims such as “Good Fats Balance” and “Losorb for Less Oil Absorption.” According to the authority, all health and nutrition-related claims made on food products must be backed by credible scientific data and comply with applicable regulatory requirements.
The regulatory action extends beyond these companies. Notices have also been issued to Ferrero India, Medizen Labs, MasterChow Foods, Raw Pressery, Nexa Industries and Orville, among others. Several products and brands are reportedly being reviewed for their labelling practices, nutritional claims and compliance with food safety standards.
Food safety experts believe the latest action reflects increasing regulatory attention on product quality, consumer protection and transparency in food marketing. With growing consumer awareness and greater scrutiny of food labels and advertising claims, regulators are placing stronger emphasis on ensuring that information provided to consumers is accurate, verifiable and compliant with the law.
Industry observers say the notices serve as a reminder that food businesses are expected to maintain strict standards of hygiene, quality control and truthful marketing. FSSAI has reiterated that consumer health and safety remain its highest priority and that appropriate action will continue to be taken wherever violations of food safety regulations are identified. The regulator’s latest intervention is being viewed as a significant step toward strengthening accountability and transparency across India’s food industry.
