New Delhi, October 14 – The Supreme Court has instructed the Central government to provide details on actions taken to adhere to a provision within the Food Safety and Standards (Fortification of Foods) Regulations of 2018. This provision requires that bags containing fortified rice be labeled with a warning about potential harm to individuals with sickle cell anemia and thalassemia.
A bench consisting of Justice S. K. Kaul and Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia has called on the Union of India to submit an affidavit within four weeks, outlining the measures taken.
The bench stated, “Counsel has appeared on behalf of the Union of India and will seek instructions regarding the actions taken regarding the subject matter of the grievance in the current petition and whether any action has been initiated concerning the petitioner(s)’ representations. An affidavit should be submitted within four weeks. The case will be listed immediately after four weeks.”
The Supreme Court addressed a petition filed by Rajesh Krishnan and others, urging compliance with Clause 7(4) of the Food Safety and Standards (Fortification of Foods) Regulations of 2018. This clause mandates the labeling of fortified rice sacks.
According to the clause, every package of food fortified with the micronutrient iron must bear the statement: “People with Thalassemia may take under medical supervision, and persons with Sickle Cell Anemia are advised not to consume iron-fortified food products.”
Fortification involves adding essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, iodine, zinc, Vitamin A, and Vitamin D, to staple foods like rice, milk, and salt to enhance their nutritional value.
