The Supreme Court has urged the Union Government to seriously consider introducing front-of-package labelling (FOPL) on pre-packaged food products, stressing the need for consumers, particularly children and their parents, to understand the nutritional risks associated with packaged foods.
A Bench of Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice K. Vinod Chandran made the observations while hearing a Miscellaneous Application arising from proceedings concerning food safety and labelling. The order was passed on August 13, 2026.
Background Of The Case
The Court had earlier suggested that pre-packaged food products should carry warnings on the front of their wrappers or packets. In its February 10, 2026 order, the Court noted that such front-of-package warnings were already prevalent internationally and asked the concerned authority to respond.
During the latest hearing, the Court was taken through the minutes of the 46th meeting of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), held on March 7, 2025. The minutes recorded several regulatory discussions and stakeholder consultation measures.
The Union Government, however, submitted that the Court's suggestion could not be considered in its proposed form, citing difficulties in following international packaging standards.
Court's Observations On Food Labelling
The Bench said its concern was primarily the health of citizens, “more particularly growing children.” It explained that FOPL is intended to provide easily understandable nutrition information at the point when a consumer decides whether to purchase a food product.
The Court also referred to concerns surrounding obesity and diets containing high levels of sugar, fat and sodium. It noted the possible health impact of processed foods and emphasised the importance of balanced nutrition for children's growth and overall well-being.
Referring to examples from countries including Chile, Israel and Canada, the Bench noted that different forms of front-of-package nutrition warnings have been adopted internationally. It clarified that the illustrations before it were only suggestive.
Supreme Court On Centre's Responsibility
The Bench observed that the right to health falls within the right to life under Article 21, while Article 47 places a duty on the State to improve public health.
The Court said the Union, in consultation with experts, could decide the visual format of FOPL, including coloured indicators, words, numbers, symbols or percentages.
It further remarked that the Union should “seriously consider” the suggestions and take an appropriate decision at the earliest. The Court added,
“If the Union does it on its own, well and good, otherwise we shall proceed to pass further directions.”
Decision
The Supreme Court granted the Union two weeks to place its final decision on record. It also said it did not approve the Union's position that India could not match international standards, asking,
“Should India remain as an underdeveloped country?”
The matter has been directed to be listed on September 10, 2026, “High on board.”
Case Details
Case Title: 3S And Our Health Society v. Union of India & Anr.
Case Number: M.A. No. 1177/2025 in W.P.(C) No. 437/2024
Judge: Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice K. Vinod Chandran
Decision Date: August 13, 2026
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