Applicability
All Pre-packaged Food Products
Compliance Condition
Pre-packaged food must not be described or presented in a manner that is false, misleading or deceptive on any label
Description & Specifications
Pre-packaged food shall not be described or presented on any label or in any labelling in a manner that is false, misleading or deceptive or likely to create an erroneous impression regarding its character in any respect. Any information or pictorial device may be displayed on the label provided it is not in conflict with the requirements of these regulations.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged food products
Exceptions
None — this is an absolute prohibition. There are no exceptions to the requirement that labels must not be false, misleading or deceptive.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 53, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹10 lakhs (misleading advertisement). Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs (misbranded food).
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Food Products
Compliance Condition
All mandatory label declarations must be in English or Hindi (Devnagari script); the label must be firmly affixed and all content must be clear, legible and indelible
Description & Specifications
The particulars required on the label shall be in English or Hindi in Devnagari script. The label must be applied so it will not become separated from the container. Contents must be clear, unambiguous, prominent, conspicuous, indelible and readily legible by the consumer under normal conditions of purchase and use.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged food products
Exceptions
Nothing prevents the use of any other language in addition to English or Hindi, provided the information in any additional language does not contradict the English/Hindi label information.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Pre-packaged Foods sold with an outer container or wrapper displayed for retail sale
Compliance Condition
The outer container or wrapper must carry all mandatory declarations, unless it is transparent and inner declarations are easily readable through it
Description & Specifications
Where a package is provided with an outside container or wrapper displayed for retail sale, it shall also contain all mandatory declarations required to appear on the package. For a transparent multi-unit package containing several retail units, the label of at least one retail unit with all required declarations must be visible.
Food Categories
Pre-packaged foods with outer containers or wrappers; multi-unit packages
Exceptions
1. Where the outer container/wrapper is transparent AND the inner package declarations are easily readable through it, the outer need not repeat all declarations. 2. For transparent multi-unit packages: at least one retail unit's full label must be visible — not all individual units require a separately readable label.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Food products sold through e-commerce or any other direct selling means
Compliance Condition
All mandatory label information must be provided to the consumer through appropriate means before the sale is completed
Description & Specifications
When a food product is sold through e-commerce or any other direct selling means, all mandatory label requirements shall be provided to the consumer before sale through appropriate means.
Food Categories
All food products sold via e-commerce or direct selling platforms
Exceptions
The following label particulars are exempt from mandatory pre-sale online disclosure (as they are variable or batch-specific and may differ between the listing and actual delivery): 1. Batch number / Lot number 2. Best before date 3. Use by / Expiry date 4. Date of manufacturing / packing
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Food Products
Compliance Condition
The true name of the food must be declared on the Front of Pack (FOP)
Description & Specifications
Every package of food shall carry the name of the food indicating its true nature on the Front of Pack. Where a food is specified by certain essential composition under FSS Regulations establishing its identity, that name shall be used. In the absence of such a name, a common/usual name or an accompanying description of the true nature of the food shall be used. A coined, fanciful, brand or trade name may additionally be used subject to the FSS (Advertising and Claims) Regulations 2018.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged food categories
Exceptions
None specified.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Foods except single-ingredient foods
Compliance Condition
A complete list of ingredients must be declared on the label in descending order of weight or volume, under the heading 'Ingredients' or 'List of Ingredients'
Description & Specifications
The ingredient list shall contain an appropriate title such as 'Ingredients/List of Ingredients'. Ingredients shall be listed in descending order of composition by weight or volume at time of manufacture. Food additives carried over in an amount sufficient to perform a technological function must be included. Compound ingredients must be declared with sub-ingredients in brackets in descending proportion if they constitute ≥5% of the food. Added water must be declared except where it forms part of a declared ingredient (e.g., brine, syrup) or evaporates during manufacture. For dehydrated or condensed food intended to be reconstituted with water, ingredients shall be declared in descending order as they appear in the reconstituted product, with a statement: 'Ingredients of the product when prepared in accordance with the directions on the label'.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged foods (excluding single-ingredient foods)
Exceptions
1. Single-ingredient foods — fully exempt from ingredient listing. 2. Packages with surface area ≤100 cm² — exempt on the individual pack; must appear on the multi-unit package. 3. Liquid products in reusable/refillable bottles — exempt from ingredient list (but nutritional information per Regulation 5(3) must still appear on the label). 4. Compound ingredients constituting <5% of the food: sub-ingredients other than food additives with a technological function in the final food need not be declared. 5. Water or other volatile ingredients evaporated in the course of manufacture need not be declared.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Pre-packaged Foods sold as a mixture where an ingredient is emphasized on the label or is characterizing
Compliance Condition
The ingoing percentage by weight or volume of emphasized or characterizing ingredients must be declared on the label
Description & Specifications
The % by weight or volume of an ingredient at time of manufacture shall be disclosed when: (i) the ingredient is emphasized as present on the label through words, pictures or graphics; or (ii) the ingredient is not within the name of the food but is essential to characterize the food and its omission would mislead or deceive the consumer.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged foods sold as mixtures with emphasized or characterizing ingredients
Exceptions
QUID declaration is NOT required when: 1. Ingredients are used as flavouring agents including spices, condiments, herbs, their extracts, mixed masalas or seasonings. 2. A reference in the food name to an ingredient would not mislead/deceive the consumer regarding the character of the food. 3. The drained net weight is indicated on the label (except for mixed ingredient products where certain ingredients are emphasized). 4. Specific provisions are already stipulated under these regulations for a particular food. 5. A pictorial representation of a serving suggestion is made for consumer information and use. 6. Added micro-nutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids) subject to a nutrition declaration as per Regulation 5(3).
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Foods (subject to exemptions under Regulation 5(3)(c))
Compliance Condition
Nutritional information per 100g/100ml and per serving with % RDA contribution must be declared on the label
Description & Specifications
Mandatory nutritional information shall include: Energy (kcal); Protein (g); Carbohydrate (g) with Total Sugars (g) and Added Sugars (g); Total Fat (g) with Saturated Fat (g), Trans Fat — other than naturally occurring (g) and Cholesterol (mg); Sodium (mg). Declaration must be per 100g or 100ml or per single consumption pack AND show % contribution to RDA based on 2000 kcal/day for an average adult (reference values: 67g total fat, 22g saturated fat, 2g trans fat, 50g added sugar, 2000mg sodium). The serving size in gram/ml and number of servings per pack must be stated. Numerical information on vitamins and minerals shall be expressed in metric units. Where a food claims to be enriched with nutrients, the quantities of such added nutrients shall be stated on the label.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged foods
Exceptions
The following are EXEMPT from mandatory nutritional labelling: 1. Unprocessed products comprising a single ingredient. 2. Processed products that have only undergone maturing and comprise a single ingredient. 3. Waters intended for human consumption, including those where the only added ingredient is carbon dioxide. 4. Herb, spice or mixtures thereof/Curry Powder (except Sprinkler masala meant for direct consumption). 5. Salt and salt substitutes. 6. Table top sweeteners. 7. Coffee extracts and chicory extracts, whole or milled coffee/decaffeinated coffee beans, soluble coffee powder, coffee-chicory mixture. 8. Herbal and fruit infusions, tea, decaffeinated tea, instant/soluble tea or tea extract — provided they contain no added ingredients other than flavourings that do not modify nutritional value. 9. Fermented vinegars and substitutes for vinegar (where only added ingredients are flavourings). 10. Flavourings, food additives, processing aids, food enzymes, gelatine, yeast. 11. Chewing gums. 12. Alcoholic beverages. 13. FSDU and FSMP products — subject to compliance with FSS (Health Supplements, Nutraceuticals, FSDU, FSMP, Functional Food and Novel Food) Regulations, 2016. Note: Nutritional information IS required even for otherwise exempt products if a nutrition or health claim is made on the label.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Foods declaring nutritional information on the label
Compliance Condition
Declared nutrient values on the label must comply within a tolerance of maximum minus 10% of the declared value at any point within the declared shelf life
Description & Specifications
The compliance to quantity of declared nutrients on the label shall have a tolerance of maximum minus 10 percent of the value for that nutrient declared on the label at any point in time within the declared shelf life of the product. This means the actual nutrient quantity must not fall below 90% of the declared value.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged foods carrying a nutritional information declaration
Exceptions
None specified — the ±10% tolerance applies universally to all declared nutrient values. Products exempt from mandatory nutritional labelling under Regulation 5(3)(c) are not subject to this requirement as they are not required to declare nutritional values.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Foods declaring energy and protein content on the label
Compliance Condition
Energy and protein values on the label must be calculated using the prescribed conversion factors and formula
Description & Specifications
Energy shall be calculated using the following conversion factors: Carbohydrates 4 kcal/g; Polyols (except Erythritol) 2 kcal/g; Erythritol 0 kcal/g; Protein 4 kcal/g; Fat 9 kcal/g; Alcohol (Ethanol) 7 kcal/g; Organic acid 3 kcal/g; Dietary fibre 2 kcal/g. Protein content shall be calculated as: Protein = Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen × 6.25 (unless a different scientifically justified factor is used). For calculating protein content in milk, a conversion factor of 6.38 shall be used.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged foods declaring energy and protein content on the label
Exceptions
A scientifically justified alternative conversion factor for protein may be used in place of the standard factor of 6.25, where appropriate (e.g., 6.38 for milk). No other exceptions specified.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Foods declaring nutritional information
Compliance Condition
Nutritional information may additionally be provided in the form of a Barcode or Global Trade Identification Number (GTIN)
Description & Specifications
Nutritional information may additionally be provided in the form of Barcode/Global Trade Identification Number (GTIN) as a supplementary means of conveying nutritional data to the consumer. This is an additional option and does not replace the mandatory on-label nutritional declaration.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged foods carrying a nutritional information declaration
Exceptions
This is a voluntary/additional measure — it does not exempt any food from the mandatory nutritional information requirements on the label.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 58, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹2 lakhs for contravention of any provision of the Act or rules/regulations made thereunder for which no specific penalty is separately provided.
Applicability
Edible oils, fats, and food products in which fats/oils are used as an ingredient
Compliance Condition
Trans fat and saturated fat content must be declared on the label; edible oil packages must additionally declare MUFA, PUFA, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid content
Description & Specifications
Every package of edible oils, interesterified vegetable fat, hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils, edible fats, margarine and fat spreads (mixed fat spread and vegetable fat spread) shall declare the quantity of trans fat content and saturated fat content on the label. These may be declared as 'not more than'. Additionally, every package of edible oils, interesterified vegetable fat, hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils, edible fats, margarine and fat spreads shall declare the quantity of monounsaturated fatty acid, polyunsaturated fatty acid, omega-3 fatty acid and omega-6 fatty acid content on the label. Every package of food in which fats, oils and fat emulsions are used as an ingredient shall declare trans fat and saturated fat content.
Food Categories
Edible oils; interesterified vegetable fat; hydrogenated/partially hydrogenated oils; edible fats; margarine; fat spreads (mixed fat spread, vegetable fat spread); any food product using fats/oils/fat emulsions as an ingredient
Exceptions
1. Saturated fat and trans fat declaration is not required if the fat content of the food is 0.5% or less. 2. The content of saturated fat and trans fat may be declared as 'not more than' rather than an exact figure.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Food Products (with specified exemptions)
Compliance Condition
A green circle (vegetarian) or brown triangle (non-vegetarian) symbol must be prominently displayed on the principal display panel close to the product/brand name
Description & Specifications
Non-Vegetarian food (containing any ingredient including food additives/processing aids of animal origin) must display a brown-filled triangle inside a square with brown outline. Vegetarian food must display a green-filled circle inside a square with green outline. The symbol must be on the principal display panel with a contrasting background, close in proximity to the name or brand name of the product on the front of pack. Where egg is the only non-vegetarian ingredient, the manufacturer/packer/seller may give an additional declaration to this effect. The symbol must also be prominently displayed on pamphlets, leaflets and advertisements in any media. Minimum symbol sizes based on principal display panel area: ≤100 cm² — circle dia 3mm, triangle side 2.5mm, square side 6mm; 100–500 cm² — 4mm, 3.5mm, 8mm; 500–2500 cm² — 6mm, 5mm, 12mm; >2500 cm² — 8mm, 7mm, 16mm.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged food products
Exceptions
The Veg/Non-Veg symbol requirement does NOT apply to: 1. Mineral water 2. Packaged drinking water 3. Carbonated water 4. Alcoholic beverages 5. Liquid milk 6. Milk powders 7. Honey
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Foods containing food additives or flavouring agents
Compliance Condition
Functional class of food additives must be declared together with the specific name or INS number in the list of ingredients
Description & Specifications
Functional classes for food additives shall be declared together with specific name(s) or recognized International Numbering System (INS) number as specified in FSS (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011. For flavouring agents: (i) in case of artificial flavouring substances — the common name of the flavour shall be declared; (ii) in case of natural flavouring substances or nature identical substances — the class name of flavours shall be declared.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged foods containing food additives or flavouring agents
Exceptions
Packages with surface area ≤100 cm² are exempt from declaring food additives on the individual pack — this information must appear on the multi-unit package instead.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Food Products
Compliance Condition
Name and complete address of the brand owner (as manufacturer/marketer/packer/bottler) must be declared on the label with appropriate qualifying words
Description & Specifications
The name and complete address of the brand owner, whether or not he himself is the manufacturer, marketer, packer or bottler, shall be declared on the label. Such name and address shall be preceded by qualifying words: 'Manufactured by (Mfg by/Mfd by)', 'Marketed by (Mkt by)', 'Manufactured & Marketed by', or 'Packed & Marketed by'. For alcoholic beverages: 'Bottled by', 'Blended and Bottled by', 'Imported and Bottled by', or 'Distilled and Bottled by' may also be used.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged food products
Exceptions
1. The address of the brand owner is exempt from appearing on the individual label if it is provided in a Barcode/Global Trade Identification Number (GTIN) — see Regulation 8(5). 2. Packages with surface area ≤100 cm² are exempt from carrying the complete address on the individual pack — it must appear on the multi-unit package.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Imported Food Products sold in India
Compliance Condition
Name and complete address of the importer in India must be declared on the label of all imported food
Description & Specifications
Where a food article is imported into India, the package of food shall also carry the name and complete address of the importer in India. Where any food article manufactured outside India is packaged or bottled in India, the package shall also bear on the label: (a) the name of the country of origin of the food article; and (b) the name and complete address of the importer and the premises of packing or bottling in India.
Food Categories
All food products imported into India
Exceptions
The importer's address is exempt from appearing on the individual label if it is provided in a Barcode/GTIN — see Regulation 8(5). Packages with surface area ≤100 cm² are also exempt from carrying this information on the individual pack — it must appear on the multi-unit package.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Food Products and all Food Business Operator premises
Compliance Condition
FSSAI logo and licence number must be displayed on the label in contrast colour to the background; FBOs must also display their registration/licence number prominently on all food premises
Description & Specifications
The FSSAI logo and licence number of the brand owner shall be displayed on the label in contrast colour to the background. If the manufacturer/marketer/packer/bottler is different from the brand owner, their licence number must also be displayed. For imported food products: the importer shall display FSSAI logo and licence number along with name and address. Every Food Business Operator shall display on all its premises (where food is stored, processed, distributed or sold) the Registration/Licence No. or Food Safety Display Board (if specified) along with other information as may be specified by the Food Authority from time to time, at a prominent place.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged food products; all food business operator premises
Exceptions
1. The licence number of the manufacturer/marketer/packer/bottler (if different from the brand owner) is exempt from the individual label if it is provided in a Barcode/GTIN — see Regulation 8(5). 2. Packages with surface area ≤100 cm² are exempt from displaying the FSSAI Logo and Licence No. on the individual pack — it must appear on the multi-unit package.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Fortified food products and certified organic food products
Compliance Condition
Fortified foods must carry the '+F' logo and 'Fortified with…' declaration on the label; certified organic foods must carry the 'Jaivik Bharat' logo
Description & Specifications
Every package of fortified food shall carry the words 'Fortified with … (name of the fortificant)' and the '+F' logo as specified in Schedule I. It may also carry the tagline 'Sampoorna Poshan Swasth Jeevan'. Every package of certified organic food as per FSS (Organic Foods) Regulations, 2017, shall carry the 'Jaivik Bharat' logo as specified in Schedule I, in the prescribed dimensions and colours.
Food Categories
Fortified food products; certified organic food products
Exceptions
This requirement is triggered only where a fortification or organic certification claim is being made. Products not making any such claim are not subject to this requirement.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Food Products
Compliance Condition
Net quantity, Retail Sale Price and Consumer Care details must be declared as per the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 and Rules thereunder
Description & Specifications
Declaration and manner of declaration of Net quantity, Retail Sale Price and Consumer Care details shall be as provided in the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 (1 of 2010) and the Rules made thereunder. Font size for these declarations on the principal display panel shall be as prescribed under that Act.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged food products
Exceptions
Exemptions, if any, are governed exclusively by the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 and the Rules thereunder. These regulations do not provide any additional exemptions.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs (misbranded food). Additionally, penalties under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 may also apply for non-compliance with net quantity and MRP declaration requirements.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Food Products
Compliance Condition
A batch number, code number, or lot number must be declared on the label for traceability
Description & Specifications
A batch number or code number or lot number shall be declared on the label to enable the food to be traced in manufacture and identified in distribution. It may be depicted using numeral, alphabet or combinations preceded by: Batch No., B. No., L. No., Lot No., Code, LN, CN, BN, or B No.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged food products
Exceptions
Packages with surface area ≤100 cm² are exempt from carrying the Lot/Batch/Code Number on the individual pack — it must appear on the multi-unit package instead.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Food Products
Compliance Condition
'Date of manufacture or packaging' and 'Expiry/Use by' date must both be declared and grouped together on the label
Description & Specifications
Both 'Date of manufacture or packaging' AND 'Expiry/Use by' shall be declared and grouped together at one place on the label. 'Best before' may also be used as optional/additional information. Format: DD/MM/YY for products with shelf life up to 3 months; month and year (capital letters, at least first 3 letters of month) for shelf life over 3 months. Special storage conditions must be declared if the validity of the date depends on them; storage conditions after opening the pack may also be specified. For packed meals served in airlines/railways/mobile catering units: date AND time of manufacture shall be declared.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged food products
Exceptions
The 'Expiry/Use by' indication is NOT required for: 1. Fresh fruits and vegetables (including potatoes) that have not been peeled, cut or similarly treated. 2. All types of wine. 3. Alcoholic beverages containing 10% or more by volume of alcohol. 4. Vinegar. 5. Sugar boiled confectionery. 6. Food grade salt for industrial use. 7. Solid sugars. 8. Chewing gum and bubble gum. Additional exemption (Regulation 8(3)): For food with shelf life of not more than 7 days, the 'date of manufacture' may not be required — only 'Expiry/Use by' is mandatory. Amendment (Operationalized w.e.f. 17 November 2021, vide Direction F.No. REG/Representation-MSEO/FSSAI-2021, dated 29 June 2021): For packages with surface area less than 30 cm², the 'date of manufacture' may not be required to be mentioned on the individual package — this information shall however be given on the multi-unit package.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Food Products Imported into India
Compliance Condition
Labelling of imported food products must comply with FSS (Import) Regulations, 2017 in addition to all requirements under these regulations
Description & Specifications
Labelling requirements for imported products shall be governed by the Food Safety and Standards (Import) Regulations, 2017 in addition to all requirements mentioned in these (Labelling and Display) Regulations. Both sets of requirements must be simultaneously complied with.
Food Categories
All food products imported into India
Exceptions
None specified — both the Import Regulations 2017 and these Labelling and Display Regulations 2020 apply cumulatively to all imported food products.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Food Products Imported into India
Compliance Condition
The country of origin must be declared on the label of all food imported into India
Description & Specifications
The country of origin of the food shall be declared on the label of food imported into India. When a food undergoes processing in a second country which changes its nature — resulting in a change in HS Code at the 6-digit level — the country in which that processing is performed shall be considered the country of origin for labelling purposes.
Food Categories
All food products imported into India
Exceptions
None specified — the country of origin determination rule applies universally to all imported food products.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Pre-packaged Foods requiring preparation or having safety-critical usage directions
Compliance Condition
Instructions for use, including reconstitution instructions where applicable, must be included on the label
Description & Specifications
Instructions for use shall be included on the label to ensure proper utilization of the food, or where such food requires directions for health and safety reasons (e.g., 'Refrigerate after opening'). Reconstitution instructions must also be provided where applicable.
Food Categories
Foods requiring preparation; foods with specific health and safety usage requirements
Exceptions
1. Packages with surface area ≤100 cm² are exempt from carrying instructions for use on the individual pack — this information must appear on the multi-unit package instead. 2. This requirement applies only where instructions are applicable — foods not requiring any preparation or special handling are not subject to this requirement.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Foods containing any of the 8 specified allergen groups
Compliance Condition
Allergens must be declared separately on the label with the statement 'Contains … (Name of allergen causing ingredient)'
Description & Specifications
The following foods/ingredients known to cause allergy shall be declared separately as 'Contains … (Name of allergy causing ingredients)': (i) Cereals containing gluten — wheat, rye, barley, oats, spelt or their hybridized strains (to be declared as name of the cereal); (ii) Crustaceans and their products; (iii) Milk & Milk products; (iv) Eggs and egg products; (v) Fish and fish products; (vi) Peanuts, tree nuts (almonds, walnuts, pistachio, cashew nuts) and their products (to be declared as 'Nut'); (vii) Soybeans and their products; (viii) Sulphite in concentrations of 10 mg/kg or more. Allergens present due to cross-contamination may be declared separately as 'May Contains … (Name of allergy causing ingredients)'.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged foods containing any of the 8 listed allergen groups
Exceptions
1. Raw agricultural commodities are fully exempt from allergen labelling requirements. 2. Oils derived from any of the listed allergen-causing ingredients are exempt from the allergen declaration requirement.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Food materials sold in retail but not meant for human consumption (e.g., Pooja water, Ghee for Diya, Oil for Pooja)
Compliance Condition
A black cross symbol inside a black-outlined square must be displayed on the label to indicate the product is not for human consumption
Description & Specifications
Every package of food material sold in retail but not meant for human consumption shall bear a declaration by a symbol consisting of a black colour cross inside a square with black outline. The sides of the square must meet the minimum size specifications as prescribed in the table under Regulation 5(4)(c).
Food Categories
Ritual/religious food items sold in retail not intended for human consumption
Exceptions
This requirement applies only to food materials that are NOT meant for human consumption. All food products intended for human consumption are not subject to this requirement and instead follow the Veg/Non-Veg symbol requirement under Regulation 5(4).
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Food Products
Compliance Condition
The principal display panel (PDP) must meet minimum area requirements; all mandatory text must meet minimum font height requirements based on PDP area
Description & Specifications
PDP area must be at least: 40% of height × width for rectangular packages; 40% of height × average circumference for cylindrical/oval packages; 20% of total surface area for other shapes. Minimum font heights of numerals and letters: ≤100 cm² — 1mm (2mm if blown/moulded/perforated); 100–500 cm² — 2mm (4mm); 500–2500 cm² — 4mm (6mm); >2500 cm² — 6mm (8mm). The width of the letter or numeral shall not be less than one-third of its height. All information should be grouped together and given at one place; or pre-printed information in one place and online/variable information in another place.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged food products
Exceptions
1. For packages with a capacity of ≤10 cubic centimetres, the principal display panel may be a card or tape affixed firmly to the package bearing the required information. 2. The width requirement of 1/3 of height does not apply to the numeral '1' and letters i, I and l. 3. Font size for net weight, retail sale price, expiry/best before/use by date, and Consumer Care details on the PDP is governed by the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 and Rules thereunder — not by this table.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Pre-packaged foods containing specific ingredients/additives as listed in Schedule II of these regulations
Compliance Condition
Specific mandatory declarations must be displayed in a rectangular box on the label; size of numerals and letters for these declarations shall not be less than 3mm based on the letter l
Description & Specifications
Wherever packaged food contains ingredients and/or additives as stated in Schedule II of these regulations, the same shall be prominently displayed on the label in a rectangular box. The size of numerals and letters for the declarations/specific requirements specified in Schedule II shall not be less than 3mm based on the letter l. The Food Authority may modify, delete or add any ingredients/additives and corresponding declarations from time to time.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged foods containing Schedule II listed ingredients/additives
Exceptions
Proviso (Amendment in force from 10 September 2021; FBOs to comply by 17 November 2021): For food packages having surface area up to 30 cm² containing caloric or non-caloric sweetener or mixture thereof, the size of numerals and letters for the declarations or specific requirements specified in Schedule II shall not be less than 1mm based on the letter l. (Reference: F.No. 1-94/FSSAI/SP(Labelling)/2014(Pt-2))
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Pre-packaged food products with a surface area not more than 100 square centimetres
Compliance Condition
Packages with surface area ≤100 cm² are exempt from several labelling requirements on the individual pack, which must instead be provided on the multi-unit package
Description & Specifications
Where the surface area of the package is not more than 100 square centimetres, the label is exempt from: (i) List of ingredients; (ii) Lot/Batch/Code Number; (iii) Nutritional information; (iv) Labelling of irradiated food; (v) Declaration of food additives; (vi) FSSAI Licence No. and logo; (vii) Name and complete address of the importer; (viii) Instructions for use. All of this information must be provided on the multi-unit packages.
Food Categories
Pre-packaged foods with surface area ≤100 cm²
Exceptions
This regulation itself creates an exemption for small packages. However, the exempted information is not waived entirely — it must be present on the multi-unit package. Core requirements (name of food, veg/non-veg symbol, date marking) continue to apply on the individual pack.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Pre-packaged food products with a surface area less than 30 square centimetres
Compliance Condition
For packages with surface area less than 30 cm², the 'date of manufacture' may not be required to be mentioned on the individual package, provided it is given on the multi-unit package
Description & Specifications
The 'date of manufacture' may not be required to be mentioned on the package having surface area of less than 30 square centimetres, but this information shall be given on the multi-unit packages. 'Expiry/Use by' continues to be mandatory on the individual pack.
Food Categories
Pre-packaged foods with surface area less than 30 cm²
Exceptions
This is itself an exemption provision. 'Expiry/Use by' date remains mandatory on the individual pack regardless of surface area.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Liquid food products marketed in bottles that are intended to be reused for refilling
Compliance Condition
Reusable/refillable liquid bottles are exempt from the list of ingredients requirement on the label, but nutritional information remains mandatory
Description & Specifications
In case of liquid products marketed in bottles, if such bottle is intended to be reused for refilling, the requirement of list of ingredients shall be exempted. However, the nutritional information specified in Regulation 5(3) shall still be given on the label.
Food Categories
Liquid food products in reusable/refillable bottles
Exceptions
This exemption applies only to liquid products in bottles specifically intended and used for refilling. The nutritional information requirement under Regulation 5(3) is not exempted and must be present on the label.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Pre-packaged food products with a shelf life of not more than 7 days
Compliance Condition
For foods with shelf life ≤7 days, the 'date of manufacture' may be omitted from the label; only the 'Expiry/Use by' date is mandatory
Description & Specifications
In case of food with shelf-life of not more than seven days, the 'date of manufacture' may not be required to be mentioned on the label of packaged food articles. However, the 'Expiry/Use by' date shall be mentioned on the label by the manufacturer or packer.
Food Categories
Pre-packaged foods with a shelf life of not more than 7 days
Exceptions
This exemption applies only to the 'date of manufacture'. The 'Expiry/Use by' date remains mandatory and must be declared on the label of all such products.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Prepared food served for immediate consumption in hotels, restaurants, caterers, halwais, hospitals, religious gatherings, airlines, railways, mobile catering units and vending machines
Compliance Condition
Minimum mandatory information must be displayed or accompanied at the point of sale/serve for food served for immediate consumption
Description & Specifications
Prepared food served for immediate consumption shall accompany or display at the point of sale/serve: (a) Specific declarations prescribed under Schedule II sub-regulations 1.1(1), (2), (3), 1.4(3), (4) and 1.9; (b) Information relating to allergens as per Regulation 5(14); (c) Logo for veg or non-veg. For food served through vending machines: in addition to the above, nutritional information per Regulation 5(3) shall be displayed through appropriate presentation on the outside of the vending machine, or through poster, leaflet or on the container.
Food Categories
Hotels, food service vendors, caterers, halwais, hospitals, religious gatherings, airline/railway/passenger vehicle meals, mobile catering units, vending machines
Exceptions
The full pre-packaged food labelling requirements under Chapter 2 (Regulation 5) do not apply to food served for immediate consumption — only the minimum requirements listed in Regulation 8(4) apply.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 58, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹2 lakhs for contravention of any provision of the Act or rules/regulations made thereunder for which no specific penalty is separately provided.
Applicability
All Pre-packaged Food Products where address and licence information is encoded in a Barcode or GTIN
Compliance Condition
Certain address and licence labelling requirements are exempted from the physical label if they are provided in a Barcode/GTIN
Description & Specifications
The following labelling requirements are exempted from appearing on the physical label if they are provided in a Barcode/Global Trade Identification Number (GTIN): (a) Address of the brand owner, whether or not he himself is the manufacturer, marketer, packer or bottler; (b) The licence number of the manufacturer or marketer or packer or bottler, as the case may be, if different from the brand owner.
Food Categories
All pre-packaged food products where applicable information is encoded in a Barcode/GTIN
Exceptions
This exemption applies only to the two specific items listed: brand owner address and the manufacturer/marketer/packer/bottler licence number (if different from brand owner). All other mandatory label declarations remain required on the physical label.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Assorted packs — packages containing multiple units of different food products for retail sale
Compliance Condition
The shelf life declared on an assorted pack must be that of the product with the earliest (shortest) shelf life among all products packed inside
Description & Specifications
For Assorted packs, the shelf life declared on the assorted pack should be that of the product having the earliest shelf life declared amongst the different pre-packaged food packed inside. The assorted pack must also comply with the general labelling requirements specified in Regulation 4(8).
Food Categories
Assorted packs — packages containing multiple units of different food products intended and displayed for retail sale
Exceptions
None specified — this requirement applies universally to all assorted packs. Individual units within the assorted pack must individually comply with their own applicable labelling requirements.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Food Service Establishments having Central License or outlets at 10 or more locations
Compliance Condition
Calorific value (kcal per serving and serving size) must be mentioned against all food items displayed on menu cards/boards/booklets, along with an adult calorie reference statement
Description & Specifications
Such establishments shall mention calorific value (in kcal per serving and serving size) against each food item on menus. Reference information: 'An average active adult requires 2,000 kcal energy per day, however, calorie needs may vary' must be clearly and prominently displayed. Additionally: allergen information per Regulation 5(14) and veg/non-veg logo per Regulation 5(4) must be shown on menus. Nutritional information per Regulation 5(3), specific Schedule II requirements, and organic food information (if claimed) must be available on request in booklets, handouts or on website. E-commerce Food Business Operators shall obtain this information from respective FBOs and provide it on their websites.
Food Categories
Food Service Establishments with Central License or ≥10 outlet locations; restaurants, QSRs, canteens, schools, hospitals, home delivery operators
Exceptions
The following are exempt from this regulation: 1. Event caterers and food service premises operating for less than 60 days in a calendar year (consecutively or non-consecutively). 2. Self-serve condiments that are free of charge and not listed on the menu. 3. Special-order items or modified meals and menu items prepared per customer's specific request. Note: Food establishments with fewer than 10 outlet locations and without a Central License are not subject to this regulation.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 58, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹2 lakhs for contravention of any provision of the Act or rules/regulations made thereunder for which no specific penalty is separately provided.
Applicability
Food Service Establishments as specified by the Food Authority from time to time
Compliance Condition
Nutritional information and/or ingredient information along with health messages shall be displayed where food is served, in the manner required and specified by the Food Authority
Description & Specifications
Nutritional information and/or ingredients information along with health messages shall be displayed where food is served in a manner as may be required and specified by the Food Authority. The Food Authority may also specify other food service establishments (beyond those under Regulation 9(1)) to comply with the requirements specified in these regulations from time to time.
Food Categories
Food Service Establishments as notified/specified by the Food Authority from time to time
Exceptions
The specific manner and extent of compliance is to be specified by the Food Authority; establishments not covered by any Food Authority direction under this provision are not subject to it.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 58, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹2 lakhs for contravention of any provision of the Act or rules/regulations made thereunder for which no specific penalty is separately provided.
Applicability
All food packaged in non-retail containers (not intended for direct consumer sale)
Compliance Condition
Non-retail containers must carry specified mandatory information on the label, certain other information may be in accompanying documents, and the pack must state 'NOT FOR RETAIL SALE'
Description & Specifications
Every packaged food for non-retail sale must provide on the container or its label: (a) Name of the food; (b) Net Quantity; (c) FSSAI Logo and Licence number; (d) Date marking; (e) Lot No.; (f) Name and address of the manufacturer or packer (including country of origin for imported packages). The following may be provided in accompanying documents instead of on the label: (a) List of ingredients; (b) Declaration regarding Veg or Non-Veg; (c) Nutritional information. Every non-retail package must bear the statement 'NOT FOR RETAIL SALE'.
Food Categories
All food products in non-retail containers for business-to-business supply
Exceptions
1. Address of brand owner and licence number of manufacturer/packer/bottler (if different from brand owner) are exempt from the label if provided in a Barcode/GTIN — per Regulation 10(3). 2. List of ingredients, Veg/Non-Veg declaration, and Nutritional information may be provided in accompanying documents rather than on the label itself — per Regulation 10(2).
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Every package of a food additive meant for retail sale to the consumer
Compliance Condition
Retail food additive packages must comply with all labelling requirements of these regulations (except Regulations 5(1) and 5(3)), and must additionally carry the specific name of the additive and the declaration 'FOR USE IN FOOD'
Description & Specifications
Every package of a food additive meant for retail sale to the consumer shall be labelled in accordance with the FSS (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020. The specific name as mentioned in FSS (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011 shall be used; if not listed therein, the name established in international regulations shall be used; or in other cases the common/commercial name. For synthetic food colours: the chemical name and the colour index of the dye stuff. If two or more food additives are present, they shall be listed in descending order of composition by weight/volume; where one or more is subject to a quantitative limitation, the quantity or proportion shall be stated. Every package of a food additive sold in retail or non-retail sale shall be marked prominently with the words 'FOR USE IN FOOD'. For mixtures of flavourings, a common/generic expression 'flavour' or 'flavouring' may be used together with a true indication of the nature of the flavour; this must be qualified by 'natural', 'nature-identical', 'artificial', or a combination thereof (does not apply to flavour modifiers).
Food Categories
All food additive packages intended for retail sale to consumers
Exceptions
1. The requirement for name of food under Regulation 5(1) does not apply — the specific additive name under Regulation 11(2)(a) replaces it. 2. The requirement for nutritional information under Regulation 5(3) does not apply to retail food additive packages. 3. For mixtures of flavourings, individual flavouring names need not be declared — a generic 'flavour'/'flavouring' expression with a true indication of nature may be used instead.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Every package of a food additive meant for sale other than by retail (non-retail/B2B sale)
Compliance Condition
Non-retail food additive packages must be labelled in accordance with the non-retail container requirements under Regulation 10, except for Regulation 10(2)(c) (nutritional information in accompanying documents)
Description & Specifications
Every package of a food additive meant for sale other than retail shall carry a label in accordance with Chapter 4 and Regulation 10 of these regulations, except clause 10(2)(c). This means nutritional information is not required to be provided even in accompanying documents for non-retail food additive packages. The 'FOR USE IN FOOD' marking under Regulation 11(2)(b)(i) also applies.
Food Categories
All food additive packages intended for non-retail/B2B sale
Exceptions
Unlike non-retail food containers generally, non-retail food additive packages are additionally exempt from providing nutritional information in accompanying documents — Regulation 10(2)(c) is specifically excluded for this category.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Pre-packaged foods containing 10% or more polyols or 10% or more polydextrose
Compliance Condition
Must display 'Polyols may have laxative effect' or 'Polydextrose may have laxative effect' in a rectangular box on the label
Description & Specifications
Every package of food containing 10% or more polyols shall bear the declaration 'Polyols may have laxative effect' in a rectangular box. Every package containing 10% or more polydextrose shall bear the declaration 'Polydextrose may have laxative effect' in a rectangular box.
Food Categories
All food products containing polyols ≥10% or polydextrose ≥10%
Exceptions
This requirement is triggered only when polyols are present at 10% or more, or polydextrose at 10% or more. Products below this threshold are not subject to this warning.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Pre-packaged foods to which caffeine has been added
Compliance Condition
Must declare 'CONTAINS CAFFEINE' in a rectangular box and declare the quantity of added caffeine (in ppm) in the list of ingredients
Description & Specifications
Every package of food containing added caffeine shall display 'CONTAINS CAFFEINE' in a rectangular box on the label. The quantity of the added caffeine in ppm shall also be declared in the list of ingredients.
Food Categories
All food products containing added caffeine
Exceptions
This applies only to added caffeine. Naturally occurring caffeine in ingredients such as coffee, tea or cocoa does not separately trigger this declaration, unless these are added specifically for their caffeine content.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Pre-packaged foods containing artificial/non-nutritive sweeteners or isomaltulose
Compliance Condition
Must carry specified warnings in a rectangular box including: sweetener name declaration, 'NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN', 'NOT FOR PHENYLKETONURICS' (if aspartame), and isomaltulose energy content
Description & Specifications
Foods containing artificial/non-nutritive sweeteners must declare: (i) 'This contains … (Name of the artificial/non-nutritive sweetener)'; (ii) 'NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN'; (iii) 'NOT FOR PHENYLKETONURICS' (if aspartame/methyl ester is added). For a mixture of Aspartame (Methyl Ester) and Acesulfame Potassium: 'This … (name of food) contains … and admixture of Aspartame (Methyl Ester) and Acesulfame Potassium' + 'NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN' + 'NOT FOR PHENYLKETONURICS'. For any food permitted to contain artificial sweeteners: 'CONTAINS ARTIFICIAL SWEETENER AND FOR CALORIE CONSCIOUS'. For isomaltulose: 'Contains Isomaltulose — (kcal) per 100gm or 100ml'. Table top sweeteners (aspartame, acesulfame K, sucralose, saccharin sodium, neotame) must also bear 'NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN'.
Food Categories
Foods containing artificial/non-nutritive sweeteners (aspartame, acesulfame K, sucralose, saccharin sodium, neotame); foods containing isomaltulose; table top sweeteners
Exceptions
None — these declarations are mandatory wherever the listed sweeteners are present.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Pre-packaged foods containing added Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
Compliance Condition
Must display the MSG presence declaration and warnings 'NOT RECOMMENDED FOR INFANTS BELOW 12 MONTHS AND PREGNANT WOMEN' in a rectangular box
Description & Specifications
Every package of food containing added Monosodium Glutamate shall bear the declaration: 'This package of (name of the food) contains added MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE' and 'NOT RECOMMENDED FOR INFANTS BELOW 12 MONTHS AND PREGNANT WOMEN' in a rectangular box.
Food Categories
All food products containing added Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
Exceptions
This applies only to added MSG. Naturally occurring glutamates in ingredients do not trigger this declaration.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Pre-packaged Pan Masala and Supari products
Compliance Condition
Must display health warning 'CHEWING OF PAN MASALA IS INJURIOUS TO HEALTH' or 'CHEWING OF SUPARI IS INJURIOUS TO HEALTH' in a rectangular box on the label and in all advertisements
Description & Specifications
Every package of Pan Masala and every advertisement relating thereto shall carry the warning 'CHEWING OF PAN MASALA IS INJURIOUS TO HEALTH' in a rectangular box. Every package of Supari and every advertisement relating thereto shall carry 'CHEWING OF SUPARI IS INJURIOUS TO HEALTH' in a rectangular box.
Food Categories
Pan Masala; Supari
Exceptions
None — this is an absolute mandatory requirement for these product categories.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Packages of edible refined vegetable oils, vanaspati, oil admixtures, and oils containing annatto colour
Compliance Condition
Prohibited use of exaggerated refining expressions; admixtures must declare blend composition on front of pack; vanaspati with >30% rice bran oil requires specific declaration; annatto-coloured oils must declare 'Contains Annatto colour'
Description & Specifications
(i) Labels/advertisements of edible refined vegetable oils and fats must NOT use expressions: 'Super-Refined', 'Extra-Refined', 'Micro-Refined', 'Double refined', 'Ultra-Refined'. (ii) Vanaspati made from >30% rice bran oil: 'This package of vanaspati is made from more than 30 per cent Rice bran oil by weight'. (iii) Oil admixtures must carry 'Multi-Sourced Edible Vegetable Oils' and each oil's name and % by weight immediately below the brand/trade name on FOP. Font: ≥5mm for 'Multi-Sourced Edible Vegetable Oils'; ≥3mm for individual oil names; ≥10mm for packs ≥5 litres. Must also carry 'NOT TO BE SOLD LOOSE' in bold capitals. (iv) Package containing annatto colour in vegetable oils: 'Contains Annatto colour'.
Food Categories
Edible refined vegetable oils; edible fats; vanaspati (especially with >30% rice bran oil); multi-sourced edible oil admixtures/blends; vegetable oils containing annatto colour
Exceptions
Single-source edible oils (not blended) are not required to carry the 'Multi-Sourced Edible Vegetable Oils' blend composition declaration — this applies only to admixtures of two or more edible oils.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.
Applicability
Packaged drinking water and mineral water (both packaged and mineral)
Compliance Condition
No medicinal or health benefit claims shall be made; the trade name shall not include local place names unless the water is actually collected at that place; no misleading pictorial devices or statements shall be used
Description & Specifications
No claims concerning medicinal (preventative, alleviative or curative) effects shall be made in respect of properties of the product. Claims of other beneficial health effects shall not be made. The name of a locality, hamlet or specified place may not form part of the trade name unless it refers to packaged water collected at the place designated by that trade name. The use of any statement or pictorial device that may create confusion or mislead the public about the nature, origin, composition and properties of the water is prohibited.
Food Categories
Packaged drinking water; mineral water
Exceptions
None specified for these restrictions — they apply absolutely to all packaged and mineral water products.
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 53, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹10 lakhs (misleading advertisement). Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs (misbranded food).
Applicability
Food products making a 'Gluten Free' claim as per FSS (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations 2011, Regulation 2.14
Compliance Condition
The term 'Gluten Free' must be printed in immediate proximity to the product name; shared manufacturing plant with gluten-containing products must be disclosed on the label
Description & Specifications
The term 'Gluten Free' shall be printed in the immediate proximity of the name of the product. If any gluten-free product is manufactured in a plant where gluten-containing products are also manufactured, this shall be declared on the label as: 'Processed in a plant where gluten containing products are manufactured'.
Food Categories
Gluten-free food products as defined under FSS (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations 2011
Exceptions
This requirement is triggered only when a product makes a 'Gluten Free' claim. Products that do not make this claim are not subject to this specific labelling requirement (though allergen declaration under Regulation 5(14) for gluten-containing cereals would still apply where relevant).
Consequence of Non-Compliance
Section 52, FSS Act 2006: Penalty up to ₹3 lakhs for manufacturing/storing/selling/distributing/importing misbranded food. Adjudicating Officer may also direct corrective action or destruction of the article.