Misleading food claims and banned items trigger penalties on online grocery platforms

In a sweeping enforcement drive, FSSAI has taken action against five prominent online retail platforms for violating food safety regulations. The authority’s findings point to the promotion of products with unverified health benefits and the sale of items prohibited by law, such as certain dhatura fruit and seed varieties.

The regulator identified that Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, BigBasket, Flipkart India and Jepto listed “Happylo Premium Date Bites” with unsupported nutritional statements. Additionally, Milkyst’s range of fresh low‑fat cream, farm‑fresh yoghurt and Greek yoghurt failed to align with labeling standards.

FSSAI reiterated that transparent labeling and accurate online descriptions are non‑negotiable, stressing that any deviation can mislead shoppers and jeopardize public health.