Dr. Reddy’s, Nestlé Health Science Face FSSAI Notices Over Misleading Product Claims

Nutritional supplement advertisements and claims made by Dr. Reddy's and Nestle Health Science Ltd, among others, as well as Flipkart India, Amazon India, Netmeds Healthcare, and Tirupati Wellness Pvt Ltd, were reportedly subject to notices from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) on 8 October. According to the authority, the notification was issued because some online stores were making claims about "Celevida GLP+" that did not comply with regulations.

"High protein support for lean muscle preservation during GLP1/GLP therapies" was the product's advertized claim, according to the regulator's social media post. It was determined that such claims implied fitness for a specific physiological condition, and FSSAI was notified about it. It was determined that the product's name, "Celevida GLP+," and the claims made about GLP-1/GIP therapy led consumers confused.

FSSAI Strongly Criticize Misleading Claims

The FSSAI further pointed out that the product's "Help Maintain Lean Muscle", "Support Muscle Strength", and "Preserves Lean Mass" statements suggest it might slow the rate of lean body mass loss that occurs with weight reduction and GLP-1/GIP treatment. According to the regulator, the product's claims about providing "complete daily nutrition" could lead consumers to believe that it is a meal replacement or complete nutrition product.

Because European origin does not prove increased or better purity of the protein on its own, the claim that it was "imported from Europe for purity" was deemed deceptive. It was determined that the claim "Contains 100% RDA BCAA" was deceptive and confusing. According to the regulator, FSSAI has also instructed FBOs to stop using the word "100%" on food labelling, packaging, and promotional materials. In addition to other concerns, FSSAI argued that the product's disclaimer, which states that the name is merely a brand and does not indicate its actual nature, was insufficient to counteract the misleading impressions given by the product's presentation.

FSSAI Taking Strong Actions Against FBOs

In addition, the FSSAI stated in its social media post that the relevant FBOs have been ordered to provide reasons why the FSS Act, 2006 should not be enforced. Separately, FSSAI has taken action by suspending Shreyas Retail's licence for their frequent involvement in the selling of food products that have expired or gone bad.

FSSAI further stated that over 70 customer complaints were traced to FBO's involvement in the selling of expired or otherwise unhealthy food items. Against the FBO, over 130 consumer complaints and concerns were received. Some customers even said they puked after eating spoilt or expired food. The FSSAI has also decided to press charges against Nex International in relation to the dangerous loose raisins.