How to Label Gluten-Free Products as Per FSSAI Guidelines

Food businesses offering gluten-free products must ensure their labeling complies with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) guidelines. Gluten-free claims are a critical part of allergen labeling, and non-compliance can result in penalties. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know to correctly label your gluten-free products.

What are the FSSAI labeling requirements for gluten-free foods?

As per FSSAI, food products that claim to be “gluten-free” must meet specific criteria. The term "gluten-free" can only be used if the product contains 20 milligrams or less of gluten per kilogram of the food item. This limit aligns with international food safety standards to ensure that the product is safe for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

The critical requirements for gluten-free labeling include:

• Declaration of Gluten-Free Status: Your label must clearly state "Gluten-Free" in a prominent manner.
• Quantitative Gluten Testing: Ensure your product is tested for gluten levels to verify compliance with the 20 mg/kg threshold.
• Ingredient Transparency: All ingredients must be listed, and any potential contamination with gluten-containing grains (like wheat, barley, or rye) must be addressed.
• FSSAI Logo and License Number: As with any packaged food, your label must display the FSSAI logo and your valid license number.

If your product doesn’t meet the gluten-free standard but is still suitable for people avoiding wheat, you may consider labeling it as "Wheat-Free" instead. However, this label must be accompanied by a disclaimer clarifying that it is not gluten-free.

For an in-depth understanding of allergen labeling, you can refer to our guide on how to comply with FSSAI allergen labeling requirements.

What information must be included on the label?

A gluten-free product label must include all mandatory FSSAI labeling elements along with the specific gluten-free claim. Here’s a checklist:

• Name of the Food Product (e.g., Gluten-Free Flour)
• List of Ingredients: Mention all ingredients in descending order of weight. Highlight allergens like wheat if the product is not gluten-free.
• Nutritional Information: Per 100 grams or per serving, as per FSSAI norms.
• Manufacturer Details: Include the name and address of the manufacturer.
• FSSAI License Number and Logo
• Batch Number, Manufacturing Date, Expiry Date
• Net Quantity: Mention the weight or volume of the product.
• Storage Instructions: Provide storage guidelines if applicable.
• Gluten-Free Declaration: Use clear and prominent text.

Here’s an example of how this might look:

For more guidance, you can explore our labeling guides to ensure your labels meet all FSSAI requirements.

Common mistakes to avoid in gluten-free labeling

Many businesses unintentionally violate FSSAI labeling rules, which can lead to penalties or even product recalls. Here are some common mistakes:

1. Incorrect Gluten-Free Claims: Marketing a product as gluten-free without verifying the gluten content through proper testing.
2. Incomplete Ingredient List: Failing to disclose all ingredients or potential cross-contamination risks.
3. Omitting Mandatory Details: Forgetting to include the FSSAI logo, license number, or manufacturing/expiry dates.
4. Improper Allergen Declaration: Not highlighting that the product is free of gluten or labeling it incorrectly as wheat-free but not gluten-free.

If you're worried about such mistakes, check out our article on Top FSSAI Labeling Mistakes and How to Avoid Them.

How to verify compliance with gluten-free standards

Once you’ve prepared your label, you’ll need to verify that it complies with FSSAI rules. Here’s how:

1. Gluten Testing: Send your product to an FSSAI-approved lab for testing to confirm it meets the <20 mg/kg gluten threshold.
2. Label Review: Double-check your label against FSSAI’s guidelines. Ensure you’ve included all mandatory information and presented the gluten-free claim prominently.
3. Seek Expert Assistance: If you’re unsure about any aspect of compliance, consult with a licensed professional. Platforms like Tatkal FSSAI can help review your labels and guide you through the process.

Penalties for non-compliance with FSSAI labeling rules

Incorrect or misleading labeling can have serious consequences. As per the Food Safety and Standards Act, penalties for non-compliance can include:

• Fines: Depending on the nature of the violation, fines can range from ₹2 lakh to ₹10 lakh.
• Product Recall: Non-compliant products may be removed from the market.
• License Suspension or Cancellation: Repeated violations can lead to the suspension or cancellation of your FSSAI license.

To understand these implications better, read our article on penalties for non-compliance with FSSAI labeling rules.

Practical tips to simplify gluten-free labeling

• Invest in Testing: Regular gluten testing ensures your product stays compliant and builds trust with consumers.
• Use Clear Language: Avoid ambiguous terms like "low gluten." Stick to FSSAI-approved phrasing such as "Gluten-Free (<20ppm)."
• Train Your Team: Educate your staff about FSSAI labeling requirements, especially those involved in packaging and quality control.
• Plan for Updates: Labeling rules may evolve. Keep track of regulatory changes and update your labels as needed.

Tatkal FSSAI can assist you in preparing and verifying your gluten-free product labels, saving you time and effort.

Ensuring your gluten-free products meet FSSAI labeling standards is not just about compliance—it’s about building trust with your customers. Take the time to get it right, and your business will benefit in the long run.