India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI) has instructed Dabur India to remove all “100% natural”, “100% pure” and “100% organic” claims from its product range. The move targets honey, ghee, coconut oil and other items accused of misleading labeling.
Key Takeaways
- FSSAI orders Dabur to eliminate all “100%” claims
- Honey, ghee, coconut oil, apple cider vinegar and more affected
- Unauthorized use of “Jaivik Bharat” organic logo flagged
Regulatory Action
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a Prohibition Order directing Dabur India Limited to immediately cease using “100% Natural”, “100% Pure” and “100% Organic” statements on its food products. The regulator warned that such claims are ambiguous, unverifiable and likely to mislead consumers.
Affected Products
The order covers a wide range of items, including honey, apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, cow ghee, coconut water and coconut milk. For instance, Dabur Hommade Coconut Milk was marketed with the tag “100% Purity”, which the FSSAI deemed impermissible under the Advertising & Claims Regulations, 2018.
Misuse of the “Jaivik Bharat” Logo
FSSAI also highlighted that the “Jaivik Bharat” organic certification mark appeared on several Dabur products without proper approval. This logo is reserved for foods that have met the government‑mandated organic standards.
Historical Background
This is not the first time Dabur has been cautioned about its “100%” branding. Earlier notices required the company to drop such claims, but the regulator found the corrective measures insufficient. The latest order now demands a detailed action‑taken report within 15 days, underscoring the authority’s resolve to enforce transparent labeling.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that misleading “100%” claims can erode consumer trust and set a dangerous precedent for other FMCG brands. The enforcement underscores the regulator’s commitment to transparent labeling and could trigger a sector‑wide review of marketing practices.
“Misleading labeling infringes on consumer rights and must be curbed,” says food safety expert Dr. Rina Shetty.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will Dabur have to remove all “100%” statements from every product? Yes, the regulator’s order applies to every product listed with such claims, including honey, ghee and coconut‑based items.
- What penalties could Dabur face for non‑compliance? Continued non‑compliance may result in fines, product recalls, or a ban on selling the affected items.