FSSAI Number on Food Packaging: Rules Explained

Displaying the FSSAI number on food packaging is not just a legal requirement but also a sign of credibility for your food business. Whether you’re a small home baker or a large-scale food manufacturer, the accuracy and visibility of this number directly impact your compliance with FSSAI regulations. Here’s a clear guide to how it works, what you must do, and common pitfalls to avoid.

What is the FSSAI number, and why does it matter?

The FSSAI number is a 14-digit unique identification number issued to food businesses that obtain FSSAI registration or a license. This number helps trace the food product back to its manufacturer, ensuring accountability and food safety. For consumers, seeing this number on packaging is a quick assurance that the product complies with food safety standards.

For example, if you run a cloud kitchen, every dish you serve must be linked to your FSSAI number. This not only ensures compliance but also builds trust with your customers — a critical factor in the competitive food industry. If you operate in a specific niche like beverages, you may also want to explore targeted compliance insights like FSSAI compliance for beverage manufacturers and sellers.

Where should the FSSAI number appear on packaging?

The Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Labelling) Regulations mandate that the FSSAI number must be printed on the label of every food package. Here’s where it should appear:

• On the Principal Display Panel: The FSSAI number must be on the main label that consumers see first.
• Adjacent to the License Details: If you’re also displaying your manufacturing license or registration number, the FSSAI number should be nearby.
• Legible and Clear: The font size must ensure readability, especially for small packages. While there’s no fixed font size mentioned in regulations, it should be proportionate to the label size.

If your food business is dealing with imported food products, ensure compliance by following the FSSAI guidelines for imported food products.

What format should the FSSAI number follow?

The FSSAI number must always be presented as a 14-digit number. Here’s an example:

FSSAI License No: 12345678901234

Avoid abbreviations or skipping parts of the number. Each digit has a specific meaning, such as the state code and the type of license issued. Always double-check the number you print to avoid errors that could lead to penalties.

Specific cases for different types of packaging

• Single-Brand Packs: The FSSAI number of the brand owner or manufacturer must be printed.
• Multi-Brand Packs: If multiple brands are involved, the FSSAI numbers of all relevant entities (manufacturer, packager, marketer) should appear.
• Imported Products: Imported food must display the FSSAI number of the Indian importer.

What happens if the FSSAI number is missing or incorrect?

Failure to display the FSSAI number correctly can lead to penalties. As per the FSS Act, non-compliance may result in:

• Fines up to ₹5 lakh: For improperly labeled packaging.
• Suspension or Cancellation of License: If issues are not rectified promptly.
• Loss of Consumer Trust: Missing or incorrect FSSAI numbers create doubts about product authenticity.

To avoid these risks, invest in regular FSSAI compliance training for food business operators, especially for your staff involved in packaging and labeling.

How to update or correct your FSSAI number

If you realize that the printed FSSAI number is incorrect, here’s what you should do:

1. Stop Distribution: Halt the distribution of incorrectly labeled products immediately.
2. Notify the Authority: Inform FSSAI about the error and your corrective action plan.
3. Reprint Labels: Correct the error and reprint the labels before resuming distribution.
4. Audit Your Records: Regularly check your packaging processes to ensure compliance.

If you’re overwhelmed by the process, Tatkal FSSAI can assist in navigating these steps efficiently.

Practical tips for small businesses and startups

For small food businesses like home bakers, cloud kitchens, or local sweet shops, ensuring compliance can feel overwhelming. Here are a few practical tips:

• Use Technology: Software tools can help you automate label design, ensuring the FSSAI number is correctly placed every time. Learn more about how AI and technology are revolutionizing FSSAI compliance processes.
• Hire a Consultant: If you’re unsure about the technicalities, it’s better to consult an expert. Mistakes can be costly in terms of both money and reputation.
• Stay Updated: Regulations evolve, so make it a practice to regularly check for updates. You can refer to our guide on staying updated with FSSAI compliance changes and notifications.
• Train Your Team: Ensure your employees understand the importance of compliance and the specific requirements for labeling.

Getting the FSSAI number on your food packaging right is more than just ticking a regulatory checkbox. It’s about building trust with your customers and ensuring your operations meet the highest food safety standards. Regular audits, technology adoption, and professional advice can go a long way in avoiding errors and penalties.

If you need expert assistance with your FSSAI registration or license and ensuring compliance with labeling rules, Tatkal FSSAI is here to guide you through the paperwork and processes, so you can focus on growing your food business.