Lesson 5 of 6
What front-of-pack claims really mean
Direct answer: Front-of-pack claims are short statements like "no added sugar" or "source of fibre". In India, FSSAI's Advertising and Claims Regulations, 2018 set conditions a food must meet to use nutrition claims. The fastest check: find the matching line on the nutrition panel and ingredients list, and see if it supports the claim.
What types of claims are there?
- Nutrient content claims — how much of a nutrient (e.g. "source of protein").
- Comparative claims — more or less than a reference food.
- Words like "natural" or "fresh" — allowed only under the conditions in Schedule V of FSSAI's Advertising and Claims Regulations, 2018 (see regulation 9(2)). A composite food made from several ingredients can't itself be called "natural"; it may say "made from natural ingredients" only if every ingredient qualifies.
Who checks the claims?
FSSAI sets the rules and conditions in its 2018 regulations; brands must meet them. As a shopper, you check the panel.
How do I verify "no added sugar"?
Look at the added sugars line and scan the ingredients for sugar-type names (Lesson 3).
How do I verify a protein or fibre claim?
Find protein or fibre on the panel per 100g and per serve, and see if it fits what you expected from the claim. Our own bars state 10g protein and 10g fibre per 40g bar, which you can confirm on the back panel.
Why be wary of vague wellness words?
Words that describe a feeling, not a nutrient, are hard to verify. Let the panel answer instead.
FAQ
Is "natural" regulated in India?
Yes. Regulation 9(2) and Schedule V of the FSSAI Advertising and Claims Regulations, 2018 set when it can be used.
Can a claim be true but not useful to me?
Yes — check if the nutrient matters for your goals.
Sources
- FSSAI, Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020 — fssai.gov.in
- FSSAI, Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018, regulation 9(2) and Schedule V — fssai.gov.in
- ICMR-NIN, Dietary Guidelines for Indians, 2024 — nin.res.in
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Food Labels: all 6 lessons
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.