Govt Forms Committee To Tackle Misleading Publicity On Processed Foods

(MENAFN- KNN India) New Delhi, Feb 7 (KNN) In a significant move to curb misinformation surrounding processed food products, the Centre has constituted a 19-member committee, spearheaded by Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Chirag Paswan.

The panel aims to ensure transparency and accuracy in the processed food sector's advertising and labeling practices.

The newly formed committee comprises representatives from key ministries, including health and Consumer Affairs, along with stakeholders from industry bodies such as FICCI, CII, and ASSOCHAM.

It is tasked with formulating policies that provide strategic direction to counter misleading publicity and foster ethical advertising in the industry.

According to the committee's terms of reference, it will identify, prevent, and address deceptive promotional practices while ensuring that consumers receive accurate and clear information.

The panel will review existing advertisements, labels, and promotional campaigns, recommending necessary amendments or new regulatory frameworks to bridge gaps in oversight.

It will also work towards drafting new guidelines to promote responsible communication about processed food products.

“The committee shall focus on identifying misleading publicity, recommending regulatory frameworks, and ensuring effective communication to protect consumer rights and promote transparency,” the official statement read.

The formation of this panel comes at a time when the food processing sector has been a key driver of economic growth. Between 2014-15 and 2022-23, the sector recorded an annual growth rate of 5.35 per cent, outpacing the agriculture and allied industries.

In 2022-23, food processing contributed 7.66 per cent to manufacturing and 8.45 per cent to agriculture's Gross Value Addition.

The industry also plays a crucial role in employment generation. As per the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) for 2021-22, the registered food processing sector employed 20.68 lakh people, while the unregistered sector provided jobs to 51.11 lakh workers, making up 14.18 per cent of employment in the unregistered manufacturing sector.

With this initiative, the government aims to strike a balance between industry growth and consumer welfare by fostering transparency and responsible marketing in the processed food segment.

(KNN Bureau)

MENAFN07022025000155011030ID1109179756