FSSAI Food Labelling and Packaging Regulations: A Complete Guide

Food labeling and packaging are critical components of compliance in the food industry. Across the globe, regulatory bodies have established stringent rules to ensure food safety and transparency for consumers. In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) governs the labeling and packaging standards for all food products.

Whether you’re launching a new food item or updating the packaging of an existing one, it’s essential to follow FSSAI’s food labeling guidelines. Non-compliance can result in penalties, fines, product recalls, or even delay your product’s entry into the market.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of FSSAI food labeling regulations, a detailed labeling checklist, common pitfalls, and exemptions to help your business remain compliant and confident.

FSSAI Food Labelling Checklist

FSSAI Food Labelling Checklist outlays the essential requirements for food product labelling.

  1. Name of the Food Product
    Throughout the label display the product needs to show its name in specified formats using correct font type.
  2. List of Ingredients
    Every food ingredient must display its weight or volume basis in descending order for the product declaration.
  3. Nutritional Information
    A checklist of mandatory information must contain energy (calories), total fat and saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, sodium, dietary fiber, total carbohydrates, sugar, protein, calcium, iron, vitamin A and vitamin C.
  4. Declaration of Vegetarian or Non-Vegetarian
    The product contains vegetarian ingredients when displayed with a green dot.
    The product contains vegetarian ingredients when presented with a green dot while a red dot indicates non-vegetarian content.
    The package requires the placement of this symbol in a visible position.
  5. Declaration of Food Additives
    The list of ingredients through both names and categories must contain any applied food additives.
  6. Name and Address of Manufacturer
    The manufacturer’s name and full address together with manufacturing location requirements must appear.
  7. Customer Care Details
    The customer support contact information in the form of phone and email details must be easily accessible to consumers.
  8. Net Quantity
    Every label should display product weight and either volume or count dimensions.
  9. Retail Sale Price
    A label requires the display of the Maximum Retail Price (MRP).
  10. FSSAI Logo and License Number
    The official FSSAI logo together with the 14-digit license number needs placement on the label with a contrasting design against the background.
  11. Batch/Code/Lot Number
    The printed batch number lets companies follow the product path to verify its origin.
  12. Manufacturing Date and Best Before/Use-by Date
    Tags on food products need to display both the manufacturing date along with the specified best before or use-by date.
    Consumers should refer to this information to determine the proper lifespan of the product together with its recommended consumption time.
  13. User Instructions
    When instructions for use and preparation exist for products they need to be provided in plain sight.
  14. Country of Origin (for Imported Products)
    Any food product that enters the country needs to show the country of origin for the food production or its manufacture process or farming location.
  15. FSSAI License Number
    The label of the product must display the FSSAI logo and license number, in contrast to the color of the packaging background for a clear view.

Additional Guidelines for Special Categories

1. Wholesale Packages

Must display:

  • Product name
  • Ingredient list (except for single-ingredient items)
  • Manufacturer’s name and address
  • Manufacturing and expiry date
  • Vegetarian or non-vegetarian logo
  • Importer details (if applicable)
  • FSSAI logo and importer’s license number

2. Primary Food Products in Packages

Must include:

  • Product name
  • Packer’s name and address
  • Packing date
  • Importer information
  • Net weight
  • Batch/Lot number
  • Expiry date
  • FSSAI logo and license number

3. Primary Foods Imported in Bulk

Must mention:

  • Product name
  • Importer’s name and address
  • Net weight
  • Batch/Lot/Code number
  • Expiry or use-by date
    Labels must be securely attached to the packaging material, like sacks or gunny bags.

FSSAI Labelling Exemptions

In specific cases, food products may be exempt from certain labeling norms:

  • Packages ≤ 100 cm²: Some label elements may be excluded.
  • Packages ≤ 30 cm²: Information like the manufacturing date can be printed on the outer box instead.
  • Reusable liquid containers: The ingredient list is not mandatory but nutritional info must be present.
  • Short Shelf Life (≤ 7 days): The manufacturing date can be omitted, but the use-by date is compulsory.
  • Wholesale Packages: Can skip some details like food additives or vegetarian/non-vegetarian symbols.

Common Mistakes That May Lead to FSSAI Disapproval

Avoid these frequent errors to ensure smooth FSSAI approval:

  • Incorrect Font Size or Style
    Always use FSSAI-specified font sizes for essential label details.
  • Logo Errors
    Ensure FSSAI logos and symbols are the correct size and colour.
  • Poor Contrast
    The FSSAI license number and logo should contrast well with the background.
  • Misleading Claims
    Avoid false or exaggerated health claims—e.g., calling a high-sodium product “healthy.”
  • Missing Front-of-Pack Information
    Key nutritional details like energy, fat, sugar, and salt must be listed on the front in the specified format.

To avoid setbacks, always proof your label design and verify compliance with the latest FSSAI regulations before final printing.

 Ensure Compliance for Hassle-Free Approval

FSSAI labelling compliance is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s a commitment to food safety and consumer transparency. Many businesses fail to get approval due to oversight or lack of knowledge. By following FSSAI food labeling guidelines and avoiding common errors, you can ensure your product stands out for the right reasons.

Need help with FSSAI registration or compliance checks? Connect with Vakilsearch to simplify your FSSAI processes and stay compliant with ease.

FAQs on FSSAI Food Labelling

What is mandatory food labelling?
It refers to the compulsory declaration of key details like ingredients, nutritional values, expiry date, allergens, etc., on the packaging as per FSSAI norms. It ensures consumers can make informed and safe choices.

What are the basic requirements for food labels?
Food labels must display the product name, ingredients, nutrition facts, expiry date, manufacturer details, FSSAI logo, license number, and other relevant information required by FSSAI to ensure transparency and compliance.

  1. Who needs to comply with FSSAI food labeling regulations?
    All food business operators involved in manufacturing, packaging, distributing, importing, or retailing packaged food products must comply with FSSAI labeling guidelines.
  2. Is it mandatory to include allergen information on food labels?
    Yes, if the food product contains common allergens like gluten, peanuts, soy, milk, eggs, tree nuts, fish, or shellfish, it must be declared on the label to ensure consumer safety.
  3. Can homemade or small-scale food businesses skip FSSAI labeling requirements?
    No. Even small-scale and home-based food businesses selling packaged food are required to follow FSSAI labeling norms, though the requirements may be simplified for certain categories.
  4. What is front-of-pack labeling under FSSAI guidelines?
    Front-of-pack labeling is a mandatory declaration of key nutritional values—such as energy (kcal), total fat, saturated fat, total sugar, and sodium—on the front panel of the package, aimed at helping consumers make healthier choices.
  5. Are there specific labelling rules for organic food?
    Yes, organic food products must comply with the FSSAI Organic Regulations and display certification logos such as “Jaivik Bharat” or those from recognized certification bodies.
  6. What happens if a food label does not comply with FSSAI regulations?
    Non-compliance may result in penalties, product recalls, delays in product launches, or suspension/cancellation of the FSSAI license.
  7. Can FSSAI labels be in regional languages?
    Yes, labels can be printed in any Indian language, but key details such as the FSSAI license number, nutritional information, and allergen declarations must also be provided in English or Hindi.
  8. Are QR codes allowed on FSSAI food labels?
    Yes, QR codes can be included on food labels to provide additional information like sourcing, traceability, or detailed product descriptions, but they must not replace any mandatory labeling elements.
  9. Is the date of packaging different from the manufacturing date under FSSAI norms?
    Yes. The date of packaging refers to when the product was packed, while the manufacturing date may refer to when the product was created or processed. Depending on the product type, one or both may be required.
  10. Do handmade or artisanal products need labeling?
    Yes, if they are sold in pre-packaged form, FSSAI labeling rules still apply to ensure consumer transparency and food safety.