The FSSAI Labelling Amendment 2026 brings important updates to the Food Safety and Standards Labelling and Display Regulations 2020. These changes directly affect how Food Business Operators handle packaging, declarations, and compliance. Issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, the amendment focuses on improving clarity, traceability, and consumer awareness.
The regulation will come into force on 1 July 2027. Therefore, businesses have a clear timeline to review and update their labelling systems.
Overview of the Amendment
The amendment introduces changes across several key areas. These include infant nutrition labelling, definition of minimally processed foods, small pack exemptions, non retail container requirements, fortification rules, and declaration norms.
Overall, the objective is simple. The regulation aims to remove confusion while ensuring that consumers receive clear and reliable information.
Key Changes You Should Know
Relaxation for Infant Nutrition Products
First, the amendment removes certain labelling requirements for infant nutrition products. Businesses no longer need to declare percentage contribution to Recommended Dietary Allowance per serving. In addition, they do not need to mention the number of servings per pack.
As a result, compliance becomes simpler for this category.
Clear Definition of Minimally Processed Foods
Next, the regulation defines minimally processed foods more clearly. These include cereals, pulses, fruits, vegetables, and single ingredient products.
Permitted processes include cleaning, grinding, refrigeration, pasteurisation, fermentation, freezing, and vacuum packaging. However, these processes must not significantly change the nutritional value.
This clarity helps businesses classify products correctly and avoid compliance errors.
Exemption for Small Packages
The amendment also introduces a practical relaxation for small packs. Packages with a surface area up to 100 square centimetres do not need to display the FSSAI logo.
However, businesses must provide this information on multi unit packs. Therefore, companies using sachets or small SKUs need to plan packaging accordingly.
Rules for Non Retail Containers
The regulation strengthens requirements for non retail containers used in B2B supply chains.
These containers must display key details such as product name, licence number, batch details, and manufacturer information. In cases where space is limited, businesses may provide some information through accompanying documents.
However, traceability must remain intact at all times. This is non negotiable.
Clear Identification of Non Retail Packs
In addition, all non retail containers must be clearly marked. Labels such as Non Retail Container or Not for Direct Sale to Consumer must appear on the package.
Alternatively, businesses may use any other clear marking that prevents confusion. This ensures that such products do not enter retail markets.
Improved Labelling Standards
The amendment also strengthens general labelling requirements. All information must be clear, visible, and easy to read. It must also remain intact and tamper evident.
Moreover, businesses must place mandatory information where it is easy to notice during normal handling.
Updated Fortification Labelling
For fortified foods, the regulation requires a clear declaration. Labels must state “Fortified with” followed by the nutrient name. They must also include the prescribed logo.
Additionally, businesses may include the tagline Sampoorna Poshan Swasth Jeevan. This helps improve consumer awareness.
Changes in Declarations and Advertising
The amendment updates rules for products containing artificial sweeteners. Labels must clearly state that such products are not recommended for phenylketonurics, children, and pregnant or lactating women.
At the same time, businesses do not need to repeat information for combinations of sweeteners. This reduces duplication.
Further, pan masala advertisements must carry clear warning messages. These must be either easily readable or clearly audible.
Compliance Timeline
The notification was issued on 24 March 2026. It will become effective from 1 July 2027.
Therefore, businesses should act early. They should review labels, update packaging designs, and align documentation systems. Training teams during this period will also help avoid last minute issues.
What This Means for the Industry
This amendment reflects a broader shift in regulation. It pushes for better traceability, clearer labelling, and stronger consumer protection.
At the same time, it simplifies certain requirements. As a result, businesses that act early will gain both compliance and operational advantages.
Action Points for Food Businesses
Food Business Operators should start with a gap assessment of current labels. Next, they should update their packaging and labelling procedures. They must also ensure that documentation systems support traceability.
In addition, teams should validate all claims and declarations. Finally, businesses should plan artwork changes well in advance to avoid delays.
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