Before we discuss Food Labelling, first we have to understand the definition of label. A Label is the printed information on the package/container of the product which comprises the Product Name, Company Name & Address, logo, ingredients etc. “Food Labelling” is the set of legal requirements regarding the information of a food product which is securely affixed on the container/package accompanying a food. Food Labelling has to be in compliance to the Food Safety & Standards Act, 2006.
Food Labelling serves two purposes; one to sell a food product by informing the consumer to take decision whether to purchase or not and secondly to meet the legal requirements on Product name, Brand name, information about the manufacturer/importer, Batch No, Code No. Mfg. & Exp. Date, License No, Logo, Veg & Non-Veg marks etc.
The information on the label has to be appropriately given for the convenience of the consumer. Any statement, claim, design etc., which is false or may mislead a consumer about the quality, nutrition value or quantity of a food product is strictly prohibited. Every food business operator dealing with the prepackaged food product has to follow the guidelines as per FSS (Packaging & Labelling) Regulations, 2011. Food Labelling becomes critical when people buy Infant Food Products or while they buy products to fulfill their special dietary needs or they may be looking to avoid food products with allergen ingredients in it.
