On 1st October, health coach Revant Himatsingka aka food pharmer had given an open challenge to Saffola, which is one of the leading health care brands of India.
He had shared a post on LinkedIn challenging Saffola to change their misleading peanut butter packaging. His post read, “Today I am giving a 6 month deadline to Saffola to change their misleading peanut butter packaging. Saffola’s peanut butter says 31% protein RDA which clearly implies that people will get 31% of their daily protein needs from Saffola peanut butter. But in tiny font in the back on the package, they write the protein requirements mentioned are for 7-9 year olds. In order to make their protein content seem big, Saffola compares their protein content to a kid’s protein requirement since kids need lesser protein. A low protein diet is one of the major causes behind several Indian illnesses. Companies must market their protein content honestly because many Indians opt to have peanut butter to increase protein in their diet."
He also presented 2 options to Saffola and wrote, “I am giving Saffola 2 options:
Option 1: Don’t make any changes and I might take legal action.
Option 2: Change your packaging and remove this 31% protein RDA claim and I will make a video praising you.
It is time for Indians to stand fearless and united against misleading ads which prompt us to eat junk food and lead unhealthy livestyles.”
In response to this post, Saffola shared a post on 2nd October clarifying that the company has already made the necessary changes in August 2024. Saffola's post read, " Saffola is committed to providing accurate and transparent information to its consumers through its packaging and communication. Saffola Peanut Butter meets all the quality standards set by FSSAI for Peanut Butter. We continuously evaluate and improve our products and packing in line with consumer's needs. Saffola Peanut Butter packaging has already been revised aptly with the product's nutritional content. This change has already been implemented by the brand in August 2024 and is reflected in new packs available in markets."
"Saffola values consumer feedback and remains committed to continuous improvement With Saffola, we prioritize the health and product safety for our consumers," the comapny further added.