Getting your food packaging and labelling right isn’t just about ticking off a legal requirement. It’s the connection that you make with your customers. By comprehending the FSSAI guidelines, you are not only abiding by the law but also showing that your product is safe, dependable, and can be trusted. Small manufacturers can use this easy guide to make sure they have the basics down.
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Why FSSAI Packaging and Labelling Regulations Matter for Small Food Manufacturers
Food packaging and labelling are not just the means to keep the product safe. These are the people who promote your brand for you, thus helping you expand your brand and giving the customers a clear idea of what they are buying. The label is a true representation of the product as per FSSAI rules, from the components to the nutrition facts, dates, and even the claims.
A lot of small-scale producers are unaware of the importance of this. Just one wrongly labelled product or a missing batch number can result in a penalty, product recall, or even legal issues. Knowing FSSAI requirements well from the outset will save you the trouble of getting fines and result in more money, time, and peace of mind on your part, while also earning you the trust of customers and distributors.
If you are doubtful of your product’s compliance with the set standards, refer to our FSSAI license guide to know the exact requirements for your category.
Common Packaging and Labelling Mistakes to Avoid
Packaging and labelling mistakes are less noticeable, but they can easily happen. Below are some examples of frequent problems that you ought to be careful with.
Incorrect Label Information
The label on your product must be precise without exception. Ingredients that are wrongly stated, incorrect weights, names that are not clear; these are not only mistakes that you have made, they are breaches. FSSAI insists that labels should be clear, truthful, and easy to understand.
Non-Compliance with Date/Batch Rules
The info about the Food production date, shelf life, and batch number must be printed in a very accurate manner. In case the details are either missing or are not correct, your product, together with the mentioned information, may be removed from the shelves.
Misuse of Nutrition Claims
Expressions such as “low sugar” or “high protein” are not simply promotional statements; therefore, you need to have the proof to use them. FSSAI has set strict rules for nutrition and health claims, and if you choose to ignore them, you will get into trouble very quickly.
It is a point of emphasis that you should not forget to inspect these things in each and every packaging audit. If, however, you ever find yourself in a situation where you are not sure, it is always better to consult the official guidelines.
Step-by-Step Packaging & Labelling Compliance Checklist (2026)
- Before your product hits the shelves, utilize this efficient checklist:
- Display your FSSAI license number prominently on the packaging.
- Provide the accurate product name, brand, and category.
- Disclose all the ingredients in descending order based on their weight.
- If there are allergens, emphasize them.
- Besides the batch number, also print the manufacturing and expiry dates.
- First of all, ensure that lab results back up claims such as “low fat” or “high protein”.
- Present nutritional information that is in line with FSSAI standards.
- Make use of a font that is clear and readable and also has good color contrast.
- Check that the materials used for your packaging are of food-grade quality and that they are compliant.
- Verify barcodes, QR codes, and traceability information twice.
- Have all the necessary documents on hand for audits or inspections.
This checklist follows the latest FSSAI Guidelines and helps you avoid penalties. If you need the official paperwork, you’ll find everything on our [Application forms] page.
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Also Read: What is Food Production?
How to Stay Updated with FSSAI Guidelines
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) rules are changing every year. The 2026 updates may influence packaging, labelling, and the safety standards of products. A small change, such as a new allergen requirement, can cause problems if you do not notice it.
Staying compliant can be best achieved by following dependable sources and keeping your packaging operations adaptable. Our [FSSAI updates newsletter] provides you with easy and timely updates that are of great use to manufacturers.
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Conclusion & Next Steps
FSSAI Packaging and labelling 2026 might look like tasks that you have to drag through, but the truth is, they are the things that bring you trust, security, and product life. Just take the list to your rescue for the beginning, check your labels in detail, and let conformity be another step in your workflow.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the FSSAI packaging and labelling requirements in India?
FSSAI requires food labels to include product name, ingredients, nutrition facts, allergen information, net quantity, date marking, FSSAI logo, license number, and veg or non-veg symbol.
What information is mandatory on food labels?
Mandatory food label information includes product name, ingredient list, nutritional values, allergen declaration, net weight, manufacturer details, date marking, and FSSAI license number.
Why is food packaging and labelling important?
Food packaging and labelling protect the product, ensure legal compliance, build consumer trust, and clearly communicate product quality and nutrition information.
What are common food labelling mistakes?
Common mistakes include missing allergen details, incorrect nutrition values, wrong date marking, misleading claims, unreadable text, and missing FSSAI logo or license number.
Which packaging materials are allowed for food products?
Only food-grade materials such as approved plastics, glass, metal, paper, and biodegradable materials are allowed under FSSAI packaging norms.
Is nutritional labelling mandatory for packaged foods?
Yes, most packaged foods must display nutritional information per 100g or 100ml, except for specific categories exempted under FSSAI rules.
What is the difference between best before and expiry date?
Best before indicates the quality period of food, while expiry or use-by date shows the last safe date for consumption.
What happens if food labels are non-compliant?
Non-compliant food labels can lead to penalties, product recalls, FSSAI license suspension, and legal action.
Do food startups need to follow labelling rules?
Yes, food startups and small brands must comply with FSSAI labelling rules, with limited exemptions only for very small pack sizes.
How can food brands ensure packaging and labelling compliance?
Food brands can ensure compliance by following FSSAI guidelines, updating labels regularly, and taking professional packaging and labelling support.
