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On packaged foods in India, now a red label, and a long overdue warning

The FSSAI proposes red, hexagonal front-of-pack warnings on unhealthy packaged foods to combat rising obesity. Prompted by the Supreme Court, this addresses high sugar, refined carbs, salt, and unhealthy fat consumption. Despite skepticism, international success (e.g., Chile) shows warnings alter consumption. Past 'health stars' were misleading. Concerns: implementation details, two-ingredient threshold, small font size. Labels are a useful start, but need integration into broader public health strategy: awareness, stricter regulation.

Indian Express · Editorial · Sep 2, 2026 at 12:35 AM

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