Supreme Court Warns against Misleading FMCG Ads

• 24 Apr 2024

On 23rd April 23 2024, the Supreme Court (Sc) urged government action on deceptive FMCG ads, particularly targeting vulnerable groups like families with children.

Key Points

• Concerns over Misleading Ads: Court emphasizes the adverse impact of deceptive FMCG advertisements on public health, especially among babies and schoolchildren.
• Investigation into Sugar Content: Recent reports prompt the Union government to investigate alleged high sugar content in Nestle’s baby food products.
• Government Intervention Urged: Court calls on the government to take action against FMCG companies engaging in misleading advertising, especially when targeting children.
• Case Scope Widened: Ministries of Consumer Affairs and Information and Broadcasting impleaded in the case to address the issue comprehensively.
• Lack of Regulatory Oversight: Concerns raised about the inadequate regulation of misleading food advertisements, despite numerous complaints.
• Contempt Case Against Patanjali: Court hears a contempt case against Patanjali for violating advertising regulations, highlighting broader issues in the FMCG industry.
• Judicial Critique: Justices express dismay over FMCG companies making false claims, citing past instances like Patanjali's COVID-19 cure assertions.