INDIA TARGETS AMAZON, SWIGGY OVER FOOD LABELING

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is expanding its crackdown on food safety violations across the digital retail sector. The regulator has initiated penal action against the platforms over allegations of misbranding, misleading labeling, and inadequate hygiene standards. The action targets both traditional e-commerce giants and the rapidly growing quick-commerce segment, signaling intensified scrutiny of how food products are labeled and marketed online. This represents a significant enforcement push as these platforms have become major channels for food distribution in India. The regulator's focus on product hygiene and labeling reflects concerns about consumer protection in the growing online food retail market. Both established players like Amazon and Flipkart, and newer quick-commerce entrants like Zepto and Swiggy Instamart, face potential penalties and compliance requirements. The action underscores regulatory pressure on digital retailers to meet stringent food safety standards as the sector continues rapid expansion.