How to Create an FSSAI-Compliant Food Label

When you’re getting ready to launch a food product, designing the label can feel like a creative task—but for food businesses in India, it’s also a legal requirement. FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) has strict guidelines for food labeling, and failing to comply can lead to hefty penalties or even the rejection of your product in the market. Here’s how you can create an FSSAI-compliant food label step by step.

What Are the Mandatory Details for an FSSAI-Compliant Label?

As per the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Labelling) Regulations, every food product must include specific information on its label. These details ensure transparency and help consumers make informed choices. Here’s what you must include:

• Name of the Food: Clearly mention the product name, ensuring it reflects the nature of the food item.
• FSSAI Logo and License Number: If your food business has an FSSAI registration or license, include the FSSAI logo and the 14-digit FSSAI license/registration number.
• Net Quantity: Mention the weight, volume, or number of units of the product. Use metric units like grams, kilograms, or liters.
• Manufacturer’s Details: Include the name and full address of the manufacturer, packer, or importer. If your food item is imported, mention the country of origin.
• Date Marking: Specify the date of manufacture, best-before date, and expiry date (if applicable).
• Lot/Batch/Code Number: This helps trace the product in case of any issues with a specific batch.
• Ingredients List: Declare all ingredients in descending order by weight or volume. Highlight any allergens (e.g., nuts, gluten) as per FSSAI allergen labeling rules.
• Nutritional Information: Provide values for energy, protein, carbohydrates, sugars, and fat per 100g or 100ml of the product.
• Vegetarian/Non-Vegetarian Logo: Use the green dot for vegetarian products and the brown dot for non-vegetarian products. These logos should be printed in a contrasting color.
• Instructions for Use: If the product requires specific preparation or storage instructions, these must be mentioned.

It’s crucial to ensure these elements meet the FSSAI labeling guidelines for font sizes, placement, and design. Non-compliance with even one of these requirements can lead to penalties.

How Should the FSSAI Logo and License Number Be Displayed?

The FSSAI logo and license number are often overlooked but are essential for compliance. Here’s how to display them correctly:

1. FSSAI Logo: The FSSAI logo must be printed prominently on the label in a size that is easily visible to consumers.
2. License Number: The 14-digit FSSAI license or registration number must be displayed near the name and address of the manufacturer.

For example, if you run a home-based bakery, your label might read:

"Manufactured by XYZ Bakers, Plot 25, XYZ Colony, Hyderabad, Telangana. FSSAI License No: 12345678901234"

If you’re unsure whether your business needs an FSSAI license or registration, you can refer to our labeling guides for more clarity.

What Are the Special Requirements for Specific Products?

While the above details apply to most food items, certain categories have additional labeling requirements. For instance:

• Imported Food: Labels must include the name and address of the importer, along with the country of origin. Learn more about FSSAI labeling rules for imported food products.
• Packaged Water and Beverages: These must include the ISI mark in addition to the FSSAI logo.
• Allergen Information: Products containing allergens (like nuts, dairy, or gluten) must highlight this in bold. For details, check how to comply with FSSAI allergen labeling requirements.

If your product falls under a specific category, consult the FSSAI’s detailed guidelines or seek professional help to avoid mistakes.

What Are Common Labeling Mistakes to Avoid?

Even a small error on your food label can lead to penalties or product recalls. Here are some common mistakes food business owners make:

• Omitting the FSSAI license number: This is mandatory for all registered food businesses.
• Incorrect ingredient declaration: Not listing ingredients in descending order of weight or missing allergens.
• Illegible font size: FSSAI specifies minimum font sizes for different elements on the label. Refer to the FSSAI font size and placement guidelines.
• Misleading claims: Avoid terms like "100% natural" or "organic" unless you have proper certification.

Want to avoid these pitfalls? We’ve outlined more in Top FSSAI Labeling Mistakes and How to Avoid Them.

Do All Food Products Require an FSSAI Label?

Not all food products require a detailed FSSAI-compliant label. For instance, loose/unpackaged food items like fresh fruits, vegetables, and certain raw grains may be exempt. To know if your product qualifies for an exemption, check which food products are exempt from FSSAI labeling rules.

How to Get Your Food Label Approved by FSSAI?

Once your label includes all the mandatory details, it must be submitted for approval. You’ll typically need to provide:

• A sample of the label.
• Your FSSAI license or registration certificate.
• Product specification details.
• Test reports for nutritional values (if applicable).

The exact list of documents can vary based on your product type and state. To avoid delays, confirm the requirements on the official FoSCoS website or review essential documents needed for FSSAI labeling approval.

How Much Does FSSAI-Compliant Labeling Cost?

The costs of creating an FSSAI-compliant label can vary. You’ll need to factor in:

• Professional design costs: For creating a label that adheres to standards.
• Testing fees: Nutritional analysis can be expensive, especially for products with complex ingredients.
• Printing costs: High-quality printing that meets font size and design guidelines.

For a detailed breakdown, check how much FSSAI-compliant labeling costs small businesses.

What Happens If My Labels Don’t Comply?

Non-compliance with FSSAI labeling regulations can lead to penalties, including fines, product recalls, or even suspension of your FSSAI license. To understand the potential consequences, you can review the penalties for non-compliance with FSSAI labeling rules. It’s always better to invest time and effort upfront to get it right.

Creating an FSSAI-compliant food label is not just about meeting legal requirements; it’s about building trust with your customers. A proper label communicates transparency, quality, and professionalism. If you find the process confusing or time-consuming, platforms like Tatkal FSSAI can assist you in getting your labeling and FSSAI approvals sorted efficiently.

Take the time to carefully craft your label and double-check it against FSSAI guidelines. It’s a small step that can save you big headaches in the future.