Government instructs e-commerce firms to exclude Bournvita from the category of ‘health drinks’

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued an advisory to e-commerce companies, directing them to remove drinks like Bournvita from the category of ‘health drinks’ on their platforms. This decision comes after an investigation by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) revealed that Bournvita contains sugar levels well above the acceptable limits.

The NCPCR, after conducting an inquiry, found that there is no specific definition of a ‘health drink’ under the Food Safety and Standards Act. The ministry stated that the FSSAI and Mondelez India Food Pvt Ltd failed to meet safety standards and guidelines, leading to the advisory being issued.

The controversy surrounding Bournvita’s health claims began when a YouTuber highlighted the excessive sugar, cocoa solids, and harmful colorants present in the product. The YouTuber warned that these ingredients could pose serious health risks to children, including the development of cancer.

In response to these findings, the FSSAI instructed e-commerce platforms to refrain from labeling dairy-based or malt-based beverages as ‘health drinks’. The ministry’s advisory serves as a warning to companies that misrepresent their products as beneficial to health.

This story serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accuracy in food labeling, especially when it comes to products targeted at children. Consumers are urged to be vigilant and informed about the ingredients in the products they consume to make healthier choices.