No warning labels on samosa & jalebi, govt clarifies

The Union Health Ministry Tuesday termed reports claiming it has directed vendors to put warning labels on food items such as samosas, jalebis and laddos as “misleading, incorrect, and baseless”.

- PRESS TRUST OF INDIA

It clarified that its advisory on health messaging about hidden fats and excess sugar in various food items is not a directive for vendors to put warning labels on their products, and underlined that it does not target India's rich street food culture.

The general advisory is a behavioural nudge to make people aware of hidden fats and excess sugar in all food products, and not specifically to any particular food product, the ministry said in a statement.

The advisory mentions other messages promoting healthy food such as fruits, vegetables and low-fat options and making suggestions for people to opt for physical activity, such as the use of stairs and short exercises.