FSSAI Guidelines for Export Packaging & Labeling | Rules, Requirements & Checklist

Introduction to FSSAI Export Packaging Norms

Exporting food from India requires more than just taste and quality — it must also meet strict **packaging and labeling standards** set by the **Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)**.

These guidelines ensure that your product meets **international food safety laws**, customs clearance requirements, and consumer expectations abroad.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• Mandatory labeling information for export
• Approved packaging materials under FSSAI
• How to pack food safely for global delivery
• Penalties for non-compliance
• Printable FSSAI export packaging checklist
• Latest updates for 2024

💡 Tip: Always print your FSSAI license number and logo on export packaging to avoid rejection at customs or destination country inspections.

Why Are FSSAI Packaging Guidelines Important for Exports?

Proper packaging ensures that meals reach customers in a safe, hygienic condition. It also protects against contamination, tampering, and spoilage during long-distance transit.

Under the **FSS Act, 2006**, all packaged food items — including those exported via air freight or sea shipment — must meet the following criteria:

• Use of safe and approved materials
• Clear and accurate labeling in English or local language of destination
• Prevention of cross-contamination
• Compliance with storage and transport conditions

Mandatory Information to Print on Export Food Packaging

All export food packages must carry the following details clearly printed on the label:

Information	Description
Name of Product	E.g., “Paneer Tikka”, “Basmati Rice”
List of Ingredients	Must include allergens like nuts, dairy, gluten, etc.
Nutritional Information	Required for pre-packed or processed foods
Vegetarian/Non-Vegetarian Mark	Green dot for vegetarian, brown dot for non-vegetarian
Date of Manufacturing & Expiry	DD/MM/YYYY format
Net Quantity	E.g., 500g, 1L
Storage Instructions	“Keep refrigerated” or “Store at room temperature”
Contact Details	Exporter’s phone, email, and address
FSSAI License Number	Mandatory for all exported deliveries
Country of Origin	Must say “Made in India”

Approved Materials for Export Packaging Under FSSAI

FSSAI has specified which packaging materials are safe for food contact and suitable for export:

Material	Status	Notes
Food-grade plastic containers (PP, PET, HDPE)	✅ Allowed	Avoid reuse beyond recommended cycles
Biodegradable containers (paper, banana leaf, bamboo)	✅ Allowed	Eco-friendly and preferred by many foreign buyers
Old or reused containers	❌ Prohibited	May cause contamination or legal action
Aluminum Foil Wraps	✅ Allowed	Safe for short-term hot food export
Plastic cutlery and covers	⚠️ Limited	Some countries have banned single-use plastics — check import laws

📌 Pro Tip: Always use clean, sealed containers that prevent leakage and maintain food temperature during international transit.

Labeling Requirements for Exported Food Products

All exported food products must follow strict FSSAI labeling rules:

• Product Name: Clear and accurate
• Brand Name: Your restaurant or business name
• Ingredients: Especially if allergens are present
• Nutrition Facts: Required for pre-packaged items
• Expiry Date: Must be visible and correct
• FSSAI Logo and License Number: Mandatory for all food products
• Storage Instructions: E.g., “Consume within 6 months”
• Importer Details: If known, provide name and address
• Bilingual Labeling: In English and destination language (if required)

Hygiene and Safety Rules for Export Packaging

According to FSSAI, all export packaging must ensure:

• No direct hand contact during packing
• Use of gloves and masks by staff handling food
• Sealed packaging to prevent tampering
• Leak-proof containers for liquids and gravies
• Separate packaging for raw and cooked items
• Temperature-controlled packaging for perishable goods

⚠️ Note: Improper packaging may lead to food contamination and customer complaints — both of which can attract FSSAI penalties and loss of overseas contracts.

How to Pack Food Safely for International Delivery

Follow these best practices for safe export packaging:

1. Use heat-sealable or ziplock bags for dry items
2. Double-wrap oily or spicy food to avoid leakage
3. Use insulated boxes for long-distance shipping
4. Place a hygiene sticker on each package to build trust
5. Attach a QR code linking to menu or license certificate
6. Avoid reusing takeaway containers unless they’re dishwasher-safe and BPA-free

Special Export Labeling Rules

Depending on the destination country, additional labeling may be required:

Requirement	Description
Halal/Kosher Certification	Mandatory for Middle East and Jewish markets
Organic Certification	If exporting organic products to EU or US
Language of Labeling	English + local language of destination (e.g., Arabic, French, Spanish)
Health Certificate	Issued by FSSAI or APEDA for customs clearance
Import Regulations of Destination Country	Some countries require ISO, HACCP, or Halal certification alongside FSSAI

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Common Mistakes to Avoid in Export Packaging

Many exporters fail due to common packaging errors:

• Missing FSSAI license number
• Incorrect or missing date labels
• Using expired or contaminated containers
• Lack of allergen declarations
• Improper sealing leading to spillage
• Using unapproved plastic types (like PVC)

🛑 Warning: Using prohibited materials or failing to label correctly can result in fines up to ₹3 lakh or product seizure at customs.

How to Stay Compliant With FSSAI Export Packaging Rules

Here’s how to ensure your export packaging meets FSSAI standards:

• Use only food-grade packaging materials
• Print or stick all mandatory details on each package
• Train your kitchen staff on packaging hygiene
• Maintain records of suppliers and materials used
• Regularly update packaging design to match latest FSSAI notifications

Steps to Get Health Certificate for Exported Foods

To ship food internationally, you may need a **health certificate** issued by FSSAI or APEDA:

1. Submit your product formulation and ingredients list
2. Send samples to NABL-certified labs for testing
3. Apply online through the FSSAI portal or APEDA
4. Receive the health certificate for customs clearance

FAQs About FSSAI Export Packaging & Labeling

Q1. Do I need to print FSSAI license number on export packages?

Yes, it’s mandatory for all exported packaged food deliveries under FSSAI law.

Q2. Can I use plastic containers for food export?

Yes, but only if they're made from approved materials like PP, PET, or HDPE.

Q3. What happens if my packaging fails FSSAI audit?

You may receive an improvement notice, fine, or even temporary suspension of your license.

Q4. Is nutritional labeling required for all export items?

No, only for pre-packed or processed foods. Home-made meals don’t require it unless specified by the destination country.

Q5. Can I use paper bags for food export?

Yes, paper bags are allowed as long as they are clean, grease-resistant, and not recycled.

Printable FSSAI Export Packaging & Labeling Checklist

Use this checklist to ensure every export package meets FSSAI standards:

Item	Status (✓ / ✗)
✅ FSSAI License Number Printed
✅ Product Name and Brand
✅ List of Ingredients
✅ Nutritional Info (if applicable)
✅ Vegetarian/Non-Vegetarian Symbol
✅ Net Quantity Clearly Mentioned
✅ Manufacturing & Expiry Dates (DD/MM/YYYY)
✅ Storage Instructions
✅ Allergen Declaration
✅ Contact Details of Exporter
✅ Country of Origin (India)
✅ NOC or Health Certificate (if required)

📌 Pro Tip: Print this checklist and review before each export batch to stay fully compliant.

Conclusion

Following **FSSAI guidelines for export packaging and labeling** is essential for maintaining food safety and staying legally compliant when shipping food internationally.

Whether you run a cloud kitchen, manufacturing unit, or home-based export business, always ensure your packaging is safe, labeled correctly, and follows FSSAI-approved standards.

Use this guide and checklist to prepare your export-ready food packs and protect your brand from legal action while building trust with global buyers.

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Related Articles

• FSSAI Penalty List 2024
• FSSAI License for Food Export Business
• FSSAI Star Rating System for Export Units
• FSSAI NOC Application Process

Need Help With FSSAI Export Packaging Compliance?

Contact us today or visit the official FSSAI website to download packaging templates and get your export packs ready for global trade.

This article is for informational purposes only. Always refer to the official FSSAI website or consult a licensed professional for accurate guidance.