How to Label Dietary Supplements According to FSSAI Standards

If you're selling dietary supplements in India, getting your product labels compliant with FSSAI standards is non-negotiable. Mislabeling can lead to hefty penalties, product recalls, or even legal issues. But with clear guidance, this process can be straightforward.

What should be included on a dietary supplement label?

As per FSSAI regulations, your dietary supplement labels must provide accurate and clear information to help consumers make informed choices. Here are the key elements your labels must include:

• Product name and description: Clearly state what the product is, such as "Vitamin C Tablets" or "Protein Supplement." Avoid misleading or exaggerated claims.

• Net quantity: Mention the weight, volume, or quantity of the product in metric units (e.g., grams or milliliters). For tablets or capsules, include the number of units.

• Nutritional information: Include details like energy (kcal), protein, fat, carbohydrates, and any other nutrients present. For vitamins and minerals, state the amount per serving and as a percentage of the recommended daily allowance (RDA).

• Ingredients list: List all ingredients in descending order of their weight or volume. If applicable, highlight any allergens.

• Usage instructions: Provide clear directions on how to use the product, such as "Take one capsule daily after a meal."

• Warnings and disclaimers: Add any precautionary statements required by FSSAI, like "Not for medicinal use" or "Not recommended for children below 12 years."

• Manufacturer/importer details: Include the name, address, and FSSAI license number of the manufacturer or importer.

• Batch number, manufacturing date, and expiry date: These details are critical for traceability and consumer safety.

• FSSAI logo and license number: Display the FSSAI logo and your 14-digit license number prominently on the label.

• Storage instructions: Mention any specific storage requirements, e.g., "Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight."

• Health claims: If your product makes specific health claims, they must be scientifically substantiated and approved by FSSAI.

Are there specific rules for packaging dietary supplements?

Yes, FSSAI also regulates the packaging of dietary supplements to ensure product safety and quality. Here’s what you need to consider:

• Material: Use food-grade materials that are non-toxic and safe for human consumption. Packaging materials must not react with the contents of the supplement.

• Seal integrity: Ensure that the packaging is tamper-evident. For example, use induction sealing for bottles or perforated shrink wraps for jars.

• Label durability: Labels must remain legible and intact throughout the product's shelf life. Avoid using materials that can easily fade or peel off.

For more detailed guidance on FSSAI packaging and labeling compliance, check out our labeling guides.

Common mistakes to avoid in FSSAI labeling for dietary supplements

Even with the best intentions, businesses often make errors that lead to non-compliance. Here are some to watch out for:

• Incomplete nutritional information: Forgetting to include RDA percentages or omitting key nutrients can result in your label being flagged.

• Misleading claims: Avoid exaggerated or unverifiable claims like "cures diabetes" or "guaranteed weight loss." Stick to scientifically validated statements.

• Improper allergen declaration: If your supplement contains allergens like nuts or soy, failing to declare them can lead to serious issues. Read our guide on how to comply with FSSAI allergen labeling requirements.

• Missing FSSAI logo or license number: This is a mandatory requirement and its absence can lead to penalties.

• Illegible font size: FSSAI mandates specific minimum font sizes for labels. Ensure all text is clear and easy to read.

You can also explore our article on top FSSAI labeling mistakes and how to avoid them for further insights.

Do dietary supplements need bilingual labels?

Yes, FSSAI mandates that all food product labels, including dietary supplements, must include information in both English and Hindi. This ensures accessibility across India's diverse consumer base. Keep these tips in mind:

• Use a clear, readable font for both languages.
• Ensure the Hindi text is accurate and grammatically correct.
• The font size for Hindi must match or be larger than the English text.

How to update or revise your labels for compliance

If your existing product labels don’t meet FSSAI standards, you’ll need to update them. Start with these steps:

1. Review the latest FSSAI labeling guidelines: Regulations can change, so confirm the latest requirements on the FSSAI or FoSCoS website.

2. Conduct a compliance audit: Review your current labels to identify any gaps or errors.

3. Work with professionals: Designers and consultants experienced in FSSAI labeling compliance can help you create accurate and visually appealing labels.

4. Test the labels: Before bulk printing, test the label for readability, durability, and compliance with FSSAI standards.

5. Keep records: Maintain copies of all label drafts, approvals, and supporting documents. These may be required during inspections.

For a detailed checklist of documents needed for FSSAI labeling approval, visit this guide.

Consequences of non-compliance with FSSAI labeling rules

Non-compliance can have serious repercussions, including:

• Fines and penalties: FSSAI can impose financial penalties, which vary depending on the severity of the violation. Learn more about penalties for non-compliance with FSSAI labeling rules.

• Product recalls: Products with incorrect or misleading labels may be recalled, leading to significant financial and reputational damage.

• License suspension or cancellation: Repeated violations can result in the suspension or cancellation of your FSSAI license, halting your operations.

How can Tatkal FSSAI help?

Navigating the complexities of FSSAI labeling regulations can be daunting, especially for small businesses. At Tatkal FSSAI, we specialize in helping businesses like yours ensure compliance with FSSAI labeling and packaging standards. From reviewing your existing labels to assisting in creating compliant designs, we handle the paperwork and processes so you can focus on your business.

Ensuring your dietary supplements meet FSSAI labeling standards isn’t just about compliance—it’s about building trust with your customers. Take the time to get it right, and you'll not only avoid penalties but also enhance your brand’s credibility.