The packaging and labeling requirements for products sourced from India are governed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). These regulations aim to ensure that consumers have access to accurate and complete information about the products they purchase, while also protecting their health and safety.
General Labeling Requirements
All products sourced from India must adhere to the following general labeling requirements:
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Name and Address of Manufacturer or Importer: The name and complete address of the manufacturer or importer must be clearly displayed on the label. For imported products, the country of origin must also be specified.
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Generic or Common Name of the Product: The product name should be clear and descriptive, accurately reflecting the nature of the product.
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List of Ingredients: The list of ingredients must be complete and legible, listing all ingredients in descending order of their weight or volume.
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Net Quantity: The net quantity of the product must be clearly stated in appropriate units of measurement (e.g., grams, liters).
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Date of Manufacture or Packing: The date of manufacture or packing must be prominently displayed on the label.
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Best Before Date or Shelf Life: If applicable, the best before date or shelf life of the product must be clearly indicated.
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Storage Instructions: Any specific storage instructions for maintaining product quality and safety should be provided on the label.
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Nutritional Information: For food products, nutritional information, including energy, protein, fat, carbohydrates, and other essential nutrients, must be displayed in a clear and understandable format.
Additional Requirements for Specific Products
In addition to the general labeling requirements, certain products may have additional labeling requirements based on their specific characteristics. For instance:
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Non-Vegetarian Food Products: Non-vegetarian food products must carry a symbol of a brown color-filled circle inside a brown square outline, prominently displayed on the label.
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Cosmetics: Cosmetics must include information about the ingredients, manufacturer or importer, country of origin, batch number, and shelf life.
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Textiles: Textiles must include information about the fiber content, care instructions, and country of origin.
Compliance with Labeling Requirements
Failure to comply with the labeling requirements can result in penalties, including product seizure, fines, and potential legal action. Manufacturers and importers are responsible for ensuring that their products meet all applicable labeling regulations.
To ensure compliance, it is advisable to consult with experts in food labeling regulations or engage a labeling consultant who can provide guidance and assistance in developing compliant labels.
