ICMR says labels could be misleading: ‘Sugar-free foods could have hidden sugars’

“Health claims on packaged foods are designed to catch the consumer attention and convince them that product is healthy. Though the Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) has strict norms, the information presented in labels could be misleading,” says ICMR. (Also learn: Overheating non-stick cookware dangerous, say ICMR tips, here is safely use them)

ICMR in its tips talked about how meals merchandise labelled as sugar-free, although perceived as useful for diabetics and weight-watchers, may very well be loaded with fat, refined cereals and even hidden sugars.

“These would imply high glycaemic index and high calories in the food item,” stated the apex physique.

No-cholesterol oil tag may very well be deceptive

No-cholesterol or heart-friendly tags may very well be deceptive too as ICMR tips point out no plant-based oil incorporates ldl cholesterol however all oils are 100 % fats and subsequently ought to be consumed in average portions.

Real fruit or stuffed with added sugar?

Busting the parable about actual fruit or fruit juice label, ICMR stated the product claiming to have actual fruit could have solely 10 % precise fruit pulp aside from added sugar and components.

“According to FSSAI regulation, any food item with even a small amount, for example, fruit juices containing only 10 or less per cent of fruit added to a product is allowed to state that the product is made with real fruit pulp or juice. But the product claiming to have real fruit may have added sugar and other additives with only 10% actual pulp,” learn the rules.

How to learn your meals label?

It is necessary to at all times learn meals label info to learn about content material of meals inside a pack.

“The food label should display the name of the food, brand name, list of the ingredients, date of manufacture, use-by/expiration dates, allergen declaration etc,” states ICMR.