Food labels are not just packaging elements. In India, they are legal declarations governed by FSSAI, and even small labelling errors can result in product rejection, penalties, or forced recalls. For food and beverage brands, understanding FSSAI labelling regulations is essential for market entry and long-term compliance.
This guide explains what FSSAI labelling regulations require, why they matter, and how food businesses can implement them correctly.
Why FSSAI Labelling Regulations Are Important
FSSAI labelling regulations exist to protect consumers by ensuring transparency, safety, and informed food choices. Labels allow regulators to trace products and help consumers understand what they are consuming.
For brands, correct labelling:
- Prevents regulatory notices and penalties
- Builds consumer trust
- Ensures smooth retail approvals
- Reduces recall and legal risks
Treating labelling as an afterthought is one of the most common compliance mistakes.
Regulatory Framework Governing Food Labelling
Food labelling in India is governed primarily by the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020, supported by:
- Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
- Packaging regulations
- Advertising and claims regulations
Every packaged food or beverage sold in India must comply with these rules.
Mandatory Labelling Declarations Under FSSAI
Every packaged food product must carry certain mandatory declarations. These requirements apply across categories unless specifically exempted.
Mandatory Label Elements (Quick Overview)
| Label Element | Requirement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Name of the Food | True and clear product identity | Avoids misleading branding |
| Ingredient List | Descending order by weight | Transparency for consumers |
| Nutritional Information | Per 100 g / 100 ml values | Supports informed food choices |
| Allergen Declaration | Mandatory if allergens present | Protects sensitive consumers |
| Net Quantity | Metric units only | Legal clarity in quantity |
| Manufacturer / Marketer | Name & full address | Product traceability |
| FSSAI Logo & License | Mandatory display | Regulatory approval proof |
| Date Marking | Best Before / Use By | Ensures food safety |
| Veg / Non-Veg Symbol | Mandatory as applicable | Legal & cultural compliance |
Name of the Food
The product name must clearly describe the true nature of the food. Brand names or fancy descriptions cannot replace the actual food category.
Example:
“Carbonated Lemon Beverage” instead of only a brand name.
Ingredient List Requirements
Ingredients must be listed in descending order of weight or volume at the time of manufacture.
Important points:
- Food additives must be declared with their functional class
- Flavours must be identified as natural, nature-identical, or artificial
- Compound ingredients may require sub-listing
Nutritional Labelling Requirements
Most packaged foods and beverages must declare nutritional information.
Nutrients That Must Be Declared
| Nutrient | Unit |
|---|---|
| Energy | kcal |
| Protein | g |
| Total Carbohydrates | g |
| Total Sugars | g |
| Added Sugars | g |
| Total Fat | g |
| Saturated Fat | g |
| Trans Fat | g |
| Sodium | mg |
📌 Values must be declared per 100 g or 100 ml, not per serving.
Allergen Declaration
If a product contains allergens such as milk, soy, nuts, or gluten, they must be clearly declared in the ingredient list. This is one of the most strictly enforced labelling requirements during audits.
Net Quantity Declaration
Net quantity must be declared in metric units, excluding packaging material.
Example:
“Net Quantity: 250 ml”
Manufacturer and Marketer Information
The label must include:
- Name and complete address of the manufacturer
- Marketer details, if different from the manufacturer
This ensures traceability during inspections and consumer complaints.
FSSAI Logo and License Number
Every packaged food product must display:
- The FSSAI logo
- A valid 14-digit FSSAI license number
Incorrect or missing license details are a common cause of product rejection.
Date Marking Requirements
Depending on the product, one of the following must be declared:
- Best Before
- Use By
- Expiry Date
Incorrect date declarations can classify a product as unsafe.
Veg / Non-Veg Symbol
India mandates clear vegetarian and non-vegetarian symbols. Even trace non-vegetarian ingredients require appropriate marking.
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Rules for Claims and Marketing Statements
Claims are among the most regulated parts of food labelling.
| Claim Type | Allowed | Not Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Nutritional Claims | If FSSAI criteria met | False or exaggerated claims |
| Health Claims | Scientifically approved only | Disease cure statements |
| Functional Claims | With supporting evidence | Medical guarantees |
| Comparative Claims | Measurable & factual | Vague comparisons |
Misleading claims are a major trigger for regulatory action.
Font Size, Visibility, and Language Rules
FSSAI specifies:
- Minimum font sizes
- Clear contrast between text and background
- Labels must be legible and indelible
Mandatory information must appear in English or Hindi. Additional languages are allowed but cannot replace mandatory languages.
Common Labelling Mistakes Observed in Audits
| Mistake | Risk |
|---|---|
| Missing allergen information | High risk of product recall and consumer safety complaints |
| Incorrect FSSAI license number | Immediate market rejection during inspection |
| Misleading or unapproved claims | Legal penalties, notices, and brand credibility loss |
| Incorrect nutritional values | Non-compliance notices and mandatory label correction |
| Improper font size or poor contrast | Failure during audit due to unreadable declarations |
Best Practices for Ensuring Label Compliance
| Stage | Best Practice |
|---|---|
| Formulation | Use only FSSAI-permitted ingredients and approved additives |
| Label Drafting | Prepare ingredient list, nutrition, and allergen details accurately |
| Design | Follow minimum font size, contrast, and layout rules |
| Pre-Launch | Conduct a complete label compliance audit before printing |
| Post-Launch | Monitor regulatory updates and revise labels when required |
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Final Thoughts
FSSAI labelling regulations are not barriers to business. They are safeguards for consumers and credibility markers for brands. For food and beverage businesses, compliant labelling is a foundation, not a formality.
When labelling is aligned early with formulation and compliance strategy, brands avoid costly mistakes and build long-term trust in the market.
Need Help With FSSAI-Compliant Food & Beverage Labelling?
Ensure your food or beverage labels meet all FSSAI labelling regulations.
Foodsure helps brands with compliant label content, claim validation,
ingredient declarations, and regulatory accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are FSSAI labelling regulations?
FSSAI labelling regulations define the mandatory information that must appear on food and beverage packaging in India to ensure consumer safety, transparency, and legal compliance.
Which regulation governs food labelling in India?
Food labelling in India is primarily governed by the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020, under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
What information is mandatory on an FSSAI food label?
Mandatory details include the product name, ingredient list, nutritional information, allergen declaration, net quantity, manufacturer details, FSSAI logo and license number, date marking, and veg/non-veg symbol.
Is nutritional labelling compulsory under FSSAI?
Yes, nutritional labelling is mandatory for most packaged foods and beverages and must be declared per 100 g or 100 ml.
How should allergens be declared on food labels?
Allergens such as milk, soy, nuts, or gluten must be clearly declared in the ingredient list to protect consumers with sensitivities.
What are the rules for claims on food labels?
Only scientifically substantiated and FSSAI-approved nutritional, health, or functional claims are allowed. Disease-cure or misleading claims are prohibited.
Is the FSSAI logo and license number mandatory?
Yes, every packaged food product must display the FSSAI logo along with a valid 14-digit license number.
What are common FSSAI labelling mistakes found during audits?
Common mistakes include missing allergen information, incorrect nutritional values, misleading claims, wrong license numbers, and improper font size or contrast.
What happens if a food label is non-compliant?
Non-compliant labels can lead to regulatory notices, product recalls, penalties, or rejection from retail and distribution channels.
How can food and beverage brands ensure label compliance?
Brands should integrate labelling compliance during formulation, validate claims early, verify nutrition through lab testing, and conduct pre-launch compliance audits.
