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Lesson 4 of 5

'Fat-free' and sugar claims: what they mean

2 min read

Direct answer: FSSAI sets exact conditions for these claims. A 'fat free' food may contain no more than 0.5g fat per 100g or 100ml, and a 'sugars free' food no more than 0.5g sugars per 100g or 100ml. 'No added sugar' means no sugars or sugar-containing ingredients were added. None of these describes the whole food.

FSSAI claim conditions: Per 100g (solids) or 100ml (liquids), source FSSAI Adv. & Claims Regs 2018, Schedule I (PDF pp. 27–28)

What does 'no added sugar' require?

Under FSSAI regulation 6(1), no sugars of any type were added and no ingredients containing sugars were used; if sugars occur naturally, the label must also say 'contains naturally occurring sugars'.

Can a 'fat free' food still be calorie-dense?

Yes. Check the energy line and added sugars on the label.

Where can I learn about 'natural' and other front-of-pack words?

Module 6, lesson 5 covers them.

FAQ

What does 'low fat' mean?

FSSAI: not more than 3g fat per 100g for solids or 1.5g per 100ml for liquids.

Who checks claims?

FSSAI regulates them; ICMR-NIN advises cross-checking claims against the ingredients and nutrition panel.

Further reading

Sources

  • FSSAI, Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018, Gazette notification 27 Nov 2018, fssai.gov.in, regulation 6(1) non-addition of sugars, PDF p. 23; Schedule I nutrition claims (fat, sugars), PDF pp. 27–28
  • ICMR-NIN Expert Committee, Dietary Guidelines for Indians-2024 (DGI 2024), nin.res.in/dietaryguidelines/pdfjs/locale/DGI_2024.pdf, Guideline 17 points to register, PDF p. 127 / printed p. 110

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Nutrition Myths, Misinformation & Supplements: all 5 lessons
  1. 1. Ultra-processed foods explained
  2. 2. How much protein do you need?
  3. 3. Does fruit have too much sugar?
  4. 4. 'Fat-free' and sugar claims: what they mean
  5. 5. Superfoods and supplements: what they can't do

General education, not medical advice.

Educational content, not medical advice. Checked against FSSAI and ICMR-NIN sources by Team Snactivate. For personal advice, consult a doctor or dietitian.