Overview of Clause 11 of Food Safety and Standards (Labeling and Display) Regulation 2020:
Clause 11 mandates the inclusion of clear and accurate information on the labels of food additives, especially those intended for retail sale. This clause is essential for ensuring both regulatory compliance and consumer transparency, as food additives can significantly affect health, safety, and product quality.
1. Identification of Additives
Every label must display the specific name of the food additive as listed in the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011 and any subsequent amendments.
Where such names are not available:
Internationally recognized names may be used.
If not listed in any regulation, the common or commercial name should be adopted.
For synthetic food colours, both the chemical name and colour index must be provided.
In cases where multiple additives are present:
They must be listed in descending order of composition by weight or volume.
If any additive is subject to a quantitative limitation, its specific quantity must be disclosed.
When food ingredients are part of the additive preparation, these must also be listed in descending order of weight.
2. Mandatory Declarations
The regulations also stipulate certain standard declarations to prevent misuse and ensure intended use:
Every package must be prominently marked with the words “FOR USE IN FOOD.”
For flavouring mixtures, individual flavour components do not need to be named. Instead:
The label may use general terms such as “flavour” or “flavouring.”
These terms must be qualified by one or more of the descriptors: “natural,” “nature-identical,” or “artificial,” as applicable.
However, flavour modifiers are exempt from this qualifier requirement.
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 which is mis-branded, shall be liable to a penalty which may extend to three lakh rupees
Read more about this Regulation: https://fssai.gov.in/cms/food-safety-and-standards-regulations.php
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