Introduction
Food labels serve as a vital bridge between the manufacturer and the consumer, ensuring transparency, safety, and trust. Under the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) mandates specific labelling provisions to inform consumers, assist in food traceability, and facilitate regulatory compliance.
This article elaborates on the detailed requirements laid down under clauses (5) to (15), covering everything from food additives to declarations for non-edible food products.
1. Declaration Regarding Food Additives [Clause 5]
Food additives are integral to processed foods. Under FSSAI guidelines:
Flavouring Agents
Per Regulation 3.3.1(1) of the Food Product Standards and Food Additives Regulations, 2011:
This helps consumers identify the additives and flavouring substances present in packaged foods and make informed dietary choices.
2. Declaration of Name and Complete Address [Clause 6]
Every label must mention the full name and address of the brand owner, irrespective of whether they manufacture, market, or only distribute the product.
Prefixes:
Alcoholic Beverages:
Additional prefixes like “Bottled by,” “Blended and Bottled by,” or “Distilled and Bottled by” are permitted.
Imported Foods:
This ensures traceability and accountability, especially in cross-border trade.
3. FSSAI Logo and License Number [Clause 7]
The FSSAI logo and license number are mandatory on all packaged food products.
Format:
Requirements:
Imported Products:
Business Premises:
Fortified & Organic Foods:
4. Net Quantity, Retail Sale Price and Consumer Care Details [Clause 8]
Declared in accordance with the Legal Metrology Act, 2009:
Labels must include:
This empowers consumers to raise complaints and receive after-sale support.
5. Lot / Code / Batch Identification [Clause 9]
Every food package must display a unique batch number, code number, or lot number. This is critical for:
Example: Batch No. BGH2106A
6. Date Marking [Clause 10]
Date-related information helps consumers assess the freshness and usability of food.
Required Dates:
Format:
Grouping:
These declarations must be grouped together on the label.
Storage Conditions:
Mention if shelf life depends on specific storage (e.g., “Keep refrigerated after opening”).
Exemptions:
Expiry need not be declared for:
Special Cases:
7. Labelling of Imported Foods [Clause 11]
Imported foods must comply with both:
Requirements:
Labelling must be completed before customs clearance and must not mislead consumers.
8. Country of Origin for Imported Foods [Clause 12]
A transparent declaration of origin is mandatory:
This helps trace supply chains and enables informed purchasing decisions.
Clear usage instructions must be provided where:
Examples:
These instructions ensure the product is consumed safely and as intended.
10. Declaration Regarding Food Allergens [Clause 14]
Allergens must be clearly declared to protect consumers with sensitivities.
Declare as:
Contains: [Name of Allergen]
List of Known Allergens:
Cross Contamination:
Declare as:
May Contain: [Allergen]
Exemptions:
Allergen declarations must be made separately and prominently.
11. Declaration for Non-Edible Food Materials [Clause 15]
Certain products sold in retail but not meant for human consumption (e.g., pooja oil, diya ghee) must bear a clear warning.
Symbol:
This helps prevent accidental ingestion and ensures the product is used only as intended.
Conclusion
FSSAI’s labelling regulations go beyond statutory compliance—they are essential for consumer awareness, safety, and product transparency. Accurate labelling helps:
Food Business Operators (FBOs) must implement robust labelling protocols, train teams on evolving norms, and regularly audit their packaging to avoid penalties and ensure regulatory alignment.
By adhering to these well-defined requirements, the food industry can offer both compliance and credibility, paving the way for a safer and more transparent food ecosystem.
Penalty for non-compliance:
Any person who whether by himself or by any other person on his behalf manufactures for sale or stores or sells or distributes or imports any article of food for human consumption shall be liable to a penalty which may extend upto ₹10 lakh + imprisonment up to 7 yearsAny person who whether by himself or by any other person on his behalf manufactures for sale or stores or sells or distributes or imports any article of food for human consumption which is misbranded, shall be liable to a penalty which may extend to three lakh rupees.
Read more about the regulation from: https://fssai.gov.in/cms/food-safety-and-standards-regulations.php
Disclaimer: The information contained in this Article is intended solely for personal non-commercial use of the user who accepts full responsibility of its use. The information in the article is general in nature and should not be considered to be legal, tax, accounting, consulting or any other professional advice. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied regarding the accuracy, adequacy, reliability or completeness of any information on our page/article.