We need your help to investigate misleading food ads in India

Published on March 30, 2026

In recent years, India has seen a surge in advertising for junk food, often targeting children and young adults. These marketing strategies have raised significant concerns regarding their impact on public health, leading to increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies. The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has flagged numerous misleading food advertisements, but many remain unaddressed.

A substantial number of these ads contain exaggerated health claims or portray unhealthy food options as suitable for a balanced diet. Despite regulatory oversight, there appears to be a lack of follow-through on enforcing guidelines, leaving consumers vulnerable to deception.

We are launching an investigation to track down these flagged advertisements and hold companies accountable for their misleading claims. It is imperative to gather evidence of these promotions to push for stricter measures that protect public health, especially among impressionable audiences.

We invite the public to join us in this effort. If you have encountered advertisements that seem to mislead or misrepresent the health benefits of food products, we urge you to report these instances. Your contributions will help us compile a comprehensive list of problematic ads and strengthen our case for demanding accountability from brands that prioritize profit over consumer welfare.

As we proceed, we will share updates on our findings and highlight specific cases where misleading ads have made a significant impact on public perception and dietary choices. Our goal is not just to expose false claims but also to foster a more informed consumer environment that prioritizes health and nutrition.

Together, we can shine a light on misleading food advertisements that have been overlooked and advocate for necessary changes in regulation and enforcement. Your help is vital in this fight against misleading marketing practices, and every piece of information you provide will work towards finding solutions that promote healthier choices for all Indians.

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