Delhi HC seeks response from Centre, FSSAI on plea flagging health hazards of artificial sweeteners

The Delhi High Court has sought the response of the Central government and the Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI) to a petition flagging concerns about the long-term health impact of consuming artificial sweeteners [Indian Sugar and Bioenergy Manufacturers Association Vs Union of India & Ors].

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma issued notice in the petition filed by an organisation called Indian Sugar and Bioenergy Manufacturers Association (ISMA), a body representing private and public sector sugar and bio-energy producers in India.

Among other prayers, the ISMA has sought an interim order to direct the FSSAI to ensure that those selling food products with non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) do not make misleading health claims about such products.

To this end, the plea says that if such products are marketed as "sugar free" or "zero sugar" or "diet" friendly, there must also be prominent disclosures that they contain NSS/ artificial sweetners.

Among other prayers, the ISMA has urged the Court to direct the Central government and the FSSAI:

• to undertake a scientific evaluation concerning the long-term health implications associated with non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) and artificial sweeteners;

• to issue public advisories concerning the potential health implications associated with prolonged NSS and artificial sweetener consumption;

• to introduce Front-of-Pack labelling and prominent front-facing

  disclosure requirements for all food and beverage products containing NSS and artificial sweeteners;

• to strengthen the regulatory and disclosure framework governing artificial sweeteners and to frame such further regulatory,

  precautionary, disclosure and public-health measures to safeguard consumer rights, public health.

The next date of hearing is September 29.

Senior Advocates Raj Shekhar Rao and Ankur Chibbar with advocates Ayan De, Ayusshi Singh and Wamic Nagral, appeared for ISMA. 

Central government standing counsel Kamlendra Mishra with advocate Krishna Pandey appeared for the Union of India.

Advocates Amit Meharia, Tannishtha Singh and Sambhav appeared for FSSAI.

[Read order]