FOOD LITERACY AND LABELLING: EMPOWERING CONSUMERS FOR HEALTHIER CHOICES IN INDIA

Abstract

Food literacy and food labelling are essential components of public health and nutrition. This paper explores the state of food literacy in India and the effectiveness of food labelling laws, particularly those regulated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The study emphasizes the critical role of food literacy in empowering consumers to make informed dietary choices and promoting healthy eating habits. Furthermore, it examines the components of food labels mandated by Indian law, such as nutritional information, ingredient lists, allergen warnings, and expiry dates, comparing them with international standards.