The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has announced a revision to labeling requirements for iron-fortified food products. This change was brough about based on a review by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW).
Prior Requirement
Previously, labels on iron-fortified foods included a warning for people with Thalassemia and a recommendation against consumption for those with Sickle Cell Anaemia.
Revision
However, MOHFW had constituted a committee to re-evaluate the labeling advice for Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Anaemia in relation to iron-fortified foods. The report of the committee was approved by MOHFW and forwarded to FSSAI for its action. Therefore, based on this report the FSSAI has omitted the specific labeling requirement effective immediately.
Implications
This revision removes the previous blanket warnings on iron-fortified food labels for people with Thalassemia.
By revising labeling requirements, the FSSAI aims to provide consumers with accurate and up-to-date information based on evolving scientific understanding.
