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New Delhi, 13 August 2026: The Supreme Court has given a strict ultimatum to the Central Government and FSSAI regarding putting clear warning labels on the front of packaged food items containing high amounts of sugar, salt and saturated fat. Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice K. Vinod Chandran has been hit on the back in clear words, “If you cannot do this, then our order will have to be announced.”

During the hearing, the applicant had drawn the attention of the court that the food industry is opposing the idea of ​​such labeling and due to pressure from the industry, FSSAI has suggested only tabular declaration of daily requirement. Expressing displeasure over this, the Supreme Court had raised serious questions against the functioning of the Central Government and the food regulator, whether these authorities are bowing down under the pressure of the corporate world?

The court had said that, these matters are directly to the health of the citizens of the country and especially the children, hence the decisions in this regard should be taken only keeping in mind the 'public interest' instead of opposition from the industries.

• The court rejected the logic of comparison with developed countries

Additional Solicitor General Brijendra Chahar, appearing for the government, had argued that food items in developed countries generally have less salt, sugar and fat content, hence the same standards should not be directly applied to traditional Indian food items.

Rejecting this argument, the Supreme Court had asked a sharp question, “Should India remain an underdeveloped country? Is it difficult for India to follow the international packaging standards adopted by developed countries?” The court clarified that the purpose of warning labels is to provide consumers with accurate information about what they are consuming. Even though the manufacturers may not like this system, the final decision should remain with the customer whether he buys the item or not.

• Court gave last extension of two weeks

The court has given the central government two weeks time to comply with the labeling proposal and has warned that if it is not complied with within the stipulated time, a direct order will be issued by the court in the next hearing.