FSSAI takes action against protein supplements due to health hazards, tightens regulations

FSSAI tightens regulations on protein supplements after investigation reveals numerous products with inaccurate and fraudulent claims.

July 1, 2024

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is targeting protein powders and shakes that are not medically certified or contain misleading information, sources said.

Nearly 70% of the 36 most popular protein powders in India gave incorrect information, with some brands only delivering half of their claimed protein content. The FSSAI action follows a study that revealed widespread false and misleading claims about protein powders sold in stores, online platforms and gyms.

The crackdown could lead to bans on non-compliant products, it has been reported. The popularity of fitness has driven up the prices of protein supplements on platforms like Healthkart and Amazon, where they are being sold for ₹2,000-6,800 for 2-3kg jars.

The situation with protein powder is worrying. A study found that nearly 70% of popular supplements in India had inaccurate protein claims, with some brands only delivering half of the claimed protein content. The study also found that 14% contained harmful fungal aflatoxins and 8% contained pesticide residues.

The authors, clinical researchers from Rajagiri Hospital in Kerala and an American technology entrepreneur, highlighted that Indian herbal protein supplements often contain low-quality ingredients, including plant substances that are harmful to the liver.

They stressed the need for strict regulations and safety testing before introducing these supplements to the market.

Overall, implementing strict regulations and conducting thorough safety testing before selling these supplements will ensure safety by reducing the risk of harmful side effects or contamination. This will help with quality control, increase consumer confidence, provide health benefits, and help reduce potential risks associated with mislabeling, misleading claims, or undisclosed ingredients.