Food labels are not mere design elements. They have a legal and consumer responsibility. The food safety regulations are becoming stricter in India. A single error on a label may attract fines, recalls, or sanctions.
Businesses must not overlook correct product labelling under FSSAI, as seen in the latest move by FSSAI. The cautionary warning of calling herbal infusion, tea, has brought about a high level of awareness. It also points out the close association between labels and FSSAI registration compliance.
The shift applies to both big brands, startups and small sellers. It has now become crucial to understand the rule to survive in the food market.
FSSAI Bans the Use of the “Tea” Label for Herbal Infusions: Why Proper Labelling Matters?
FSSAI has made this very clear that the herbal infusion cannot be sold as tea. The withdrawal prevents the confusion and misconceptions of consumers.
Key reasons why this ban matters:
- Consumers identify tea with the tea leaves.
- Herbal drinks possess different qualities.
- Misleading names affect purchasing behavior.
- The health claims can be misinterpreted.
This move will support the significance of correct product labelling with FSSAI. Identical ingredient names enhance trust. Clear labelling also minimizes legal risk because many businesses have FSSAI registration.
What Does the New FSSAI Rule Say?
The rule is concerned with naming accuracy of the products. The word tea can be used only on products that are produced using tea leaves.
The key guidelines will be:
- The tea should be made of leaves of Camellia sinensis.
- Herbal blends should include such terms as herbal infusion.
- Product names have to be an expression of real composition.
- The claims must be factual and verifiable.
This brevity eliminates clouds in branding. Companies have to repackage when necessary. The failure to follow this rule may lead to a weakening of correct product labelling in compliance with FSSAI. It can also cause a problem when the FSSAI Registration is checked.
Why can’t we call herbal infusions ‘tea’ anymore?
Tea is a controlled type of food. It has set standards in the Indian food laws. The same thing cannot be said about herbal products.
The key issues to consider are:
- Tea and herbs are of different origins.
- Consumers demand caffeine in tea.
- Some buyers do not drink tea because of health reasons.
- Perceived benefits are affected by names.
Providing misguided names misleads the buyers. This is the reason why correct product labelling under FSSAI safeguards the consumer choice. Honest product naming ensures fair competition, and deceptive labels under FSSAI registration should not undermine compliant companies.
How Is This Linked to FSSAI Registration?
Registration is assumed to be a one-time work by many businesses. That belief is risky. The compliance is a continuation to approval.
In regular monitoring, label checks are involved. During audits, officials examine:
- Product name accuracy
- Ingredient declaration
- Nutritional information
- Claims and disclaimers
In case of any mistakes, something can be done. Valid licenses are still not immune to trouble when there is no correct product labelling under FSSAI. Constant compliance is the key to smooth FSSAI registration maintenance.
What Is Misbranding Under FSSAI Laws?
Misbranding is to give false, deceptive or ambiguous information. It may be either premeditated or unintended. Both are treated seriously.
The most common misbranding problems are:
- Wrong product names
- Unapproved health claims
- Missing ingredient details
- Misleading images or terms
Misbranding is a direct breach of correct product labelling as per the FSSAI norms. The punishment can be fines or withdrawal of products. Renewals under FSSAI Registration can have repeat problems. It is always better to prevent than to cure.
See Also: Challenges of FSSAI Compliance for Food Businesses
Impact on Food Businesses and Herbal Product Sellers
There is a fast-growing market in herbal beverages. The growth entails increased regulation. A great number of sellers will have to reconsider branding strategies.
This change affects businesses in the following ways:
- Packaging redesign costs
- Adaptation of marketing messages.
- Inventory relabeling
- Compliance training needs
The early mover takes an advantage. Associating with correct product labelling by FSSAI generates long term credibility. It also provides stability on the FSSAI registration. Time wastage may result in financial and reputation losses.
Why Correct Product Labelling Is a Long-Term Business Asset?
Proper labeling is even better than penalizing. They contribute to brand development and brand loyalty.
The advantages of appropriate labelling are:
- Higher consumer trust
- Reduced legal disputes
- Better market reputation
- Easier inspections
Adhering to correct product labelling under FSSAI is an indication of professionalism. It is respectful of the law and customers. Considerable compliance also makes it easier to renew and audit in FSSAI registration.
Conclusion
Food labelling is no longer a trifle aspect. It is an obligation under the law, as well as trust building. The use of herbal infusion as a warning sign by the FSSAI is apparent. The government requires correctness, transparency, and truthfulness.
Companies that do not pay attention to this face fines and interference. Individuals who are adaptable become credible and stable. correct product labelling under FSSAI protects both the consumers and the brands. It also protects your status in FSSAI registration. Compliance today prevents crisis tomorrow.
FAQs
Q1. What is the relevance of proper labelling of products under FSSAI?
Adequate labelling makes the consumer know what he is purchasing. It also facilitates legal adherence and penalties.
Q2. Why can’t we call herbal infusions tea anymore?
Under food laws, tea has a legal definition. Herbal infusions do not use tea, making the term ‘tea’ misleading.
Q3. What do the herbal tea brands write now on their labels?
They ought to instead refer to such words as herbal infusion or herbal drink rather than tea.
Q4. What influence does wrong labelling have on registration by FSSAI?
Wrong labelling may result in the issuance of notices, fines, or suspension of the license in case of inspection or renewal.
Q5. What does FSSAI consider to be misbranding?
Misbranding will constitute incorrect product names, false claims, omission of ingredients, or misleading packaging.
Q6. Are small food businesses to adhere to these rules, too?
Yes. FSSAI regulations are applicable to startups, home based sellers and major manufacturers.
Q7. What steps can businesses take to prevent labelling-related problems in the future?
To prevent labelling-related business problems in the future, businesses should frequently review labels, train staff, and strictly follow new FSSAI guidelines to ensure compliance and build trust.
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