In the rapidly growing food industry, labeling is more than just a regulatory requirement—it serves as a critical communication tool between manufacturers and consumers. For deemed manufacturers, often referred to as relabellers, compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) labeling regulations is of utmost importance. These entities do not produce the product themselves but repackage, rebrand, or relabel products before making them available in the market. Despite not being the original manufacturer, they bear the responsibility for accurate and compliant labeling under FSSAI regulations.
FSSAI mandates that every packaged food product sold in India must carry a label that provides complete information about the product. This includes the name of the product, list of ingredients, nutritional information, manufacturing and expiry dates, storage instructions, and FSSAI license number. For deemed manufacturers, the label should clearly mention their name and address along with a declaration that they are relabelling the product. This ensures transparency and accountability in the food supply chain, protecting consumers from misleading claims or unsafe products.
A critical aspect of FSSAI labeling is the accuracy of ingredient and nutritional information. Deemed manufacturers must verify that the information provided by the original manufacturer is correct and that no ingredient has been altered during the relabelling process. Mislabeling can lead to severe penalties, including fines, suspension of license, or even criminal liability under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Therefore, it is essential to establish strict verification processes before affixing a label.
Allergens, additives, and potential health risks must also be clearly indicated. For instance, if a product contains nuts, gluten, or artificial colors, it must be clearly disclosed on the packaging. Additionally, products that claim to be organic, vegan, or low-calorie must meet the FSSAI standards for these claims. This prevents misrepresentation and ensures that consumers make informed choices.
Another important consideration for relabellers is the language and legibility of the label. FSSAI requires that labels be printed in a language that is easily understood by the general public, commonly Hindi or English. The font size and placement of critical information should be readable, ensuring that consumers can access essential information at a glance.
Regular audits and inspections by FSSAI or state food authorities ensure that deemed manufacturers remain compliant. Maintaining proper documentation, including purchase invoices from original manufacturers and labeling approvals, can safeguard against regulatory challenges. Staying updated with amendments to the FSSAI labeling regulations is equally important, as non-compliance can affect market access and brand reputation.
Agile Regulatory, a trusted regulatory consulting firm, provides comprehensive support for deemed manufacturers and relabellers in achieving FSSAI labeling compliance. From reviewing label content to assisting in license updates and documentation, Agile Regulatory ensures that businesses meet regulatory requirements efficiently and accurately. With expert guidance, companies can confidently operate within legal frameworks, safeguarding both consumer trust and business credibility.