The FSSAI specifies essential details that must be displayed on food product labels.
These
include:
General Labeling Information:
Name of the Product: The product’s common or trade name.
List of Ingredients: Must include all ingredients in descending order of weight or volume.
Nutritional Information (per 100 g/ml): Includes energy (kcal), protein, fat, carbohydrates, sugar,
etc.
Allergen Information: Must indicate allergens like gluten, nuts, soy, dairy, etc.
Specific Guidelines for Claims:
Nutritional Claims: Claims like “low fat” or “high fiber” must comply with prescribed limits.
Health Claims: Any claim regarding disease risk reduction (e.g., "lowers cholesterol") must be
approved by FSSAI.
Fortified Products: Foods with added vitamins/minerals must carry the +F logo.
Mandatory Declarations:
Veg/Non-Veg Symbol:
Green dot for vegetarian foods.
Brown dot for non-vegetarian foods.
FSSAI License Number: Displayed prominently for traceability.
Batch Number or Lot Number: Important for tracking.
Expiry/Best Before Date: Use of “Best Before” or “Use By” date is mandatory.
Net Weight/Volume: Quantity of the product, with permitted units.
Labeling for Special Categories:
Packaged Water: Must adhere to specific BIS standards and include TDS levels.
Organic Foods: Require certification and the use of an organic logo.
Infant Foods: No health or nutrient claims are allowed.
3. Rules on Specific Labeling Disclosures
Country of Origin: If the food or ingredients are imported, the label must specify the origin.
Genetically Modified (GM) Foods: Disclosure is required if genetically modified content exceeds
1%.
Caffeine Content: Must display warnings for foods/beverages containing more than 145 mg/L of
caffeine.
4. E-commerce and Online Food Labeling
E-commerce platforms must display all essential labeling information, including nutritional facts
and allergens.
Pre-packaged food sold online must follow the same guidelines as physical retail.
5. Penalties and Compliance
Non-compliance Penalties: FSSAI has powers to impose fines, cancel licenses, or initiate
legal action if labeling or packaging norms are violated.
Recall Process: Businesses must initiate food recalls if found unsafe and inform FSSAI and
consumers promptly.
These FSSAI rules are essential for food safety, enhancing consumer trust, and ensuring
transparency. Businesses must ensure compliance with these packaging and labeling norms to
avoid penalties and contribute to public health.
