New Delh: In a major victory for public health, the Delhi High Court has upheld the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India’s (FSSAI) regulation requiring pan masala manufacturers to dedicate 50% of the front of the package to health warnings. This decision comes after a pan masala manufacturer challenged the regulation issued by FSSAI in October 2022.
The Court emphasized that the FSSAI’s regulation prioritizes public health. The larger warning labels are seen as a crucial measure to inform consumers about the health risks associated with pan masala, which often contains ingredients like areca nut, known to be hazardous.
Arguments Rejected by the Court
The pan masala manufacturer argued that the regulation lacked scientific backing and infringed on their trademark rights by limiting label space. However, the Court dismissed these claims.
- The Court noted that the FSSAI based its decision on expert studies and reports highlighting the health dangers of pan masala.
- It further stated that public health concerns outweigh any potential limitations on displaying trademarks.
Court Recognizes Global Public Health Concerns
The Court acknowledged the worldwide push to ban pan masala products altogether. While FSSAI opted for a stricter warning label approach for now, the Court’s decision reflects a growing recognition of the health risks associated with pan masala consumption.
Implications for Manufacturers
The Court’s ruling upholds the FSSAI’s regulation, and pan masala manufacturers must comply with the 50% warning label requirement. The Court also rejected the manufacturer’s request for additional time to transition to the new packaging standards.
This decision is a significant step towards informing consumers about the health risks of pan masala products and promoting public health in India.
