Government Steps Up Efforts to Counter Misinformation on Processed Foods

Shri Paswan called for science-based communication, transparency and responsible engagement to counter misleading narratives.

The Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, Shri Chirag Paswan, today chaired the second meeting of the Committee constituted to counter misleading publicity related to processed foods, at the Dr Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. The meeting brought together committee members, senior government officials, industry leaders and representatives of major industry associations, underscoring a coordinated approach to addressing public misinformation.

Emphasising Science-Based Communication

Addressing the participants, the Union Minister highlighted the critical role of the food processing sector in ensuring food safety, improving nutrition, reducing post-harvest wastage and enhancing farmers’ incomes. He stressed that myths and misinformation surrounding processed foods can undermine informed consumer choices and negatively affect the sector’s growth.

Shri Paswan called for science-based communication, transparency and responsible engagement to counter misleading narratives. He emphasised the need to actively leverage digital platforms, social media, counter-influencers and mass communication channels, alongside collective stakeholder responsibility, to ensure that accurate, credible and balanced information on food processing reaches citizens across the country.

Review of Progress and Next Steps

Shri Avinash Joshi, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, outlined the actions taken since the previous committee meeting. These include extensive stakeholder consultations, expert reviews and nationwide dissemination of approved Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) aimed at addressing common misconceptions. He reiterated the importance of coordinated efforts among government, regulators, industry and academia to strengthen informed public discourse on processed foods.

Whole-of-Government and Industry Participation

The meeting was attended by senior officers of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, including the Special Secretary, Joint Secretaries and other senior officials. Representatives from key regulatory and technical institutions such as the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM) also participated. Shri Ranjit Punhani, Chief Executive Officer, FSSAI, was present during the deliberations.

Industry participation included senior representatives from leading associations such as FICCI, CII, ASSOCHAM, AIFPA, AFSTI and FSNM, as well as executives from major food processing companies. Their engagement reflected a whole-of-government and whole-of-industry approach to countering misleading publicity and promoting factual, science-backed communication.

Building Trust Through Informed Dialogue

The discussions reinforced the government’s commitment to fostering public trust through accurate information, while ensuring that the food processing sector continues to contribute to nutrition security, economic growth and agricultural sustainability. The committee’s work is expected to play a key role in shaping a more informed and balanced public understanding of processed foods in India.