Bombay High Court Directs Dabur to Discontinue 'Anti-Inflammatory' and 'Anti-Bacterial' Claims on Toothpaste Labels

Dabur India Ltd., a prominent player in the Indian consumer goods market, recently submitted an affidavit to the Bombay High Court, committing to discontinue the use of the terms 'anti-inflammatory,' 'anti-bacterial,' and 'analgesic' on its toothpaste products. This decision aligns with an order issued by the Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Government of Maharashtra, which directed the company to remove these specific labels to ensure compliance with the statutory provisions under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.

The FDA's directive, dated January 29, 2025, highlighted that the claims made on Dabur's toothpaste labels were legally incorrect, although it acknowledged that these claims were not hazardous to health. To adhere to this directive, Dabur was instructed to eliminate the aforementioned terms from their product packaging. Additionally, the FDA mandated that Dabur obtain a bond concerning the retrieval of stock already distributed across India, ensuring that corrections were made to the labeling before the restricted stock could be released into the market.

In response to the FDA's order, on March 26, 2025, Dabur India Ltd. informed the Bombay High Court of its intention to withdraw and discontinue the use of the phrases 'anti-inflammatory' on its 'Dabur Meswak Toothpaste' and 'anti-bacterial' and 'analgesic' on its 'Dabur Herb' Anti-Bacterial Toothpaste Tulsi.' This proactive measure was taken to comply with regulatory standards and to address the concerns raised by the FDA regarding the accuracy of product labeling.

A division bench comprising Justice G. S. Kulkarni and Justice Advait M. Sethna presided over the matter and accepted Dabur's commitment to remove the specified labels. The court stipulated that, effective June 2025, Dabur must cease the manufacture and sale of these products with the disputed labels, ensuring that neither the packaging nor the products themselves contain the terms in question.

Furthermore, the court addressed the issue of existing stock that had already been produced and distributed. It was determined that the stock, valued at approximately Rs. 1 crore and subject to the impugned order, should be utilized on or before May 31, 2025. The court explicitly stated that these products must not be sold in the market beyond this date, thereby setting a clear deadline for the clearance of existing inventory with the current labeling.

This development underscores the importance of accurate and legally compliant product labeling in the consumer goods industry. Regulatory bodies like the FDA play a crucial role in monitoring and ensuring that product claims are substantiated and do not mislead consumers. By adhering to these regulations, companies not only comply with legal standards but also maintain consumer trust and uphold the integrity of their brands.

Dabur's decision to comply with the FDA's directive and the subsequent court order reflects its commitment to regulatory adherence and consumer safety. By proactively addressing the labeling concerns and taking steps to rectify them, Dabur demonstrates its dedication to maintaining high standards in its product offerings. This move also serves as a reminder to other companies in the industry about the critical importance of ensuring that all product claims are accurate, substantiated, and in full compliance with existing laws and regulations.

In conclusion, the Bombay High Court's acceptance of Dabur India Ltd.'s undertaking marks a significant step in reinforcing the standards for product labeling within the consumer goods sector. It highlights the collaborative efforts between regulatory authorities and companies to ensure that consumers receive products that are not only safe but also marketed with transparency and honesty. As the industry continues to evolve, such measures are essential in fostering a marketplace that values integrity, compliance, and consumer well-being.