FSSAI License Regulations on Food Packaging

Government agencies globally enforce stringent regulations governing food labelling and package design. In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) serves as the authority that mandates food labelling standards. Food Producers must comply with these standards and obtain a Food Business license when they introduce a new food product or update its packaging. Given the numerous FSSAI label standards, inadvertent errors can occur. Any unintentional breach of FSSAI food labelling standards and failure to secure a Food Business license may lead to consequences such as fines, penalties, product recalls, or delays in product launches. However, a thorough understanding of FSSAI labelling standards can help navigate these challenges and ensure compliance for your goods. [shortcode_7]

New FSSAI Packaging Guidelines

Recognizing the pivotal role of packaging in the food industry and its impact on food safety, the FSSAI has introduced distinct packaging regulations for obtaining an FSSAI License online. These novel packaging standards have been delineated separately from the existing labelling regulations, and a dedicated Scientific Panel for food packaging will oversee their implementation. Also read: How to Start Food Business?

Purposes of Updated FSSAI Packaging Guidelines

The primary objectives of the revised FSSAI Packaging Guidelines are to shield food from microbiological, chemical, physical, and atmospheric contamination, ensuring the preservation of food and the protection of customer health.

Effective packaging further ensures that the sensory attributes or composition of the food remain unchanged during the packaging process.
The significance of packaging lies in its crucial role in enhancing food safety, prolonging shelf life, and consequently contributing to improved food security.

Click here to learn more about Difference between the FSSAI License and FSSAI Registration

General Requirements for Pre-Packaged Foods

All pre-packaged foods must feature labelling following the regulations unless otherwise specified.

In cases where a food product is sold through e-commerce or other direct selling methods, consumers must be provided with the mandatory label requirements outlined in these regulations before the sale, excluding specific details such as batch number, best before date, use by date, expiry date, and date of manufacturing/packing.
Descriptions or presentations of pre-packaged food on labels must avoid any false, misleading, or deceptive elements that could create an erroneous impression about its character.
While labels may include written, printed, or graphic information, they should not conflict with the stipulations outlined in these regulations.
Declarations required under these regulations on the label should be in either English or Hindi in the Devnagri script. However, additional languages are permitted, provided they do not contradict the information in English or Hindi.
Labels on pre-packaged foods should be affixed securely to prevent separation from the container.
The contents on the label must be clear, unambiguous, and easily legible under normal conditions of purchase and use. It should be prominent, conspicuous, and indelible for consumer convenience.
In cases where a package includes an outside container or wrapper displayed for retail sale, it must contain all required declarations. An exception is made if the container or wrapper is transparent, allowing easy readability of declarations on the package.

Note: In the context of transparent multi-unit packages containing several retail units, at least one retail unit's label must be visible, showcasing the necessary declarations outlined in these regulations.

Labelling Requirements for FSSAI Packaged Foods

Continuing the general requirements, specific information must be displayed on every package's label. This detailed information is crucial for consumers, facilitating informed choices and ensuring compliance with food safety standards. Here's a breakdown of the essential elements required on the label:

Name of Food

The front of every food package should prominently display the name of the food, reflecting its true nature.
In cases where a food is specified by essential composition under Food Safety and Standards Regulations, the provided name must be used to establish its identity.
In the absence of a specified name, a common or usual name or an accompanying description of the true nature of the food is acceptable.
Additionally, the use of "coined," "fanciful," "brand," or "trade name" is allowed, provided it complies with the Food Safety & Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulation 2018.