FSSAI Cracks Down: Tripura Water License Pulled, Venolex Forte Barred

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India announced on August 3 that it has suspended the operating licence of Mater Drinking Water in Tripura and has placed an immediate embargo on Venolex Forte, a nutraceutical marketed by Noble Healthcare in Mohali, Punjab.

Through a statement on its X account, FSSAI warned that the two firms were found to be in “serious contravention of food‑safety regulations.” The agency stressed that ongoing vigilance and enforcement actions will remain central to protecting consumer health across all food‑related industries.

Under the provisions of Section 36(3)(b) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, the authority ordered the cessation of manufacturing, storage, distribution and sale of Venolex Forte. Laboratory analysis identified several non‑permitted ingredients, including calcium dibasic, diosmin and uforbia prostret, none of which are authorized under the 2022 Health Supplements, Nutraceuticals and Novel Food rules.

The product also claimed a vitamin‑C level of 90 mg per serving, exceeding the Recommended Dietary Allowance set by the ICMR‑NIN in its 2020 recommendations. Additionally, the label promoted the item as a “dietary food supplement” and displayed the FSSAI licence number in a prominent position, potentially leading consumers to believe the product enjoyed special regulatory endorsement.

FSSAI highlighted that such deceptive labelling could create confusion about the product’s legal and regulatory standing. The initial assessment found Venolex Forte non‑compliant with the Food Safety and Standards Act and associated regulations, leading to the immediate restriction.

The authority reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and indicated that further strict action will be pursued against any future violations.