Cadbury Bournvita, a popular health drink, has recently come under the spotlight due to a viral video questioning its nutritional value and potential health risks. The video features a man alleging that Bournvita does not provide the immune system benefits it claims and could lead to diabetes and even cancer. This controversial video has sparked widespread debate on social media and led to Mondelez India, the owner of the Bournvita brand, releasing a statement refuting the claims.
The video, created by Revant Himatsingka, a self-proclaimed nutritionist and health coach, was widely circulated on social media platforms and garnered over 12 million views. It led to significant public concern and forced Bournvita to address the allegations. The company has called Himatsingka’s claims “unscientific” and accused him of distorting facts and drawing false conclusions.
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In response to the video Bournvita released a statement expressing how it has been a trusted brand by Indian customers for more than seven decades. They mentioned that their product, Bournvita, is made to specific formulas and adheres to quality standards while also following local laws. A representative highlighted that the beverage was created by a talented team of nutritionists and food scientists in order to provide an ideal combination of taste and healthiness.
Mondelez India, which owns Cadbury, clarified that Bournvita is best consumed with 200 ml of hot or cold milk, as stated on the packaging. They pointed out that every 20 gm serving of Bournvita contains only 7.5 grams of added sugar, approximately one and a half teaspoons, which is well within the daily recommended intake limits for children. Regarding the caramel colorant (150C), Bournvita confirmed that it is within the permissible limits as per regulatory guidelines, and all ingredients are safe and approved for use.
Following the legal notice served by Bournvita, Himatsingka took down the video and issued an apology on Instagram. He stated that he did not intend to infringe any trademarks or defame the company and requested that no legal action be pursued.
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has asked Mondelez International India to withdraw all deceptive advertising, packaging and labelling of Bournvita due to its high sugar content, despite the apology. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has requested a full report regarding the subject within a week, giving the company an opportunity to clarify their stance.
The controversy surrounding Bournvita has raised questions about the marketing of health drinks for children and the potential impact of high sugar content on their health. The NCPCR has requested the Food Safety Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Central Consumer Protection Authority to take necessary action on this issue.
In summary, the viral video questioning the nutritional value and safety of Cadbury Bournvita has sparked significant debate and concern among consumers. While the company has refuted these claims and provided clarification, the controversy has led to increased scrutiny from regulatory authorities, raising broader questions about the marketing and composition of health drinks targeted at children.
