Food allergies are becoming increasingly common in India, affecting both children and adults. Even a tiny trace of an allergen can trigger reactions ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis. With the rise of packaged food consumption and international food imports, clear allergen information has become crucial for consumer safety. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) plays a key role in ensuring that packaged food labels communicate accurate allergen information, helping consumers make informed choices.

In this blog, we will explain how FSSAI ensures transparency through allergen labelling, what businesses must do to comply, and how this system protects sensitive consumers while promoting responsible manufacturing in India’s growing food industry.

Why Allergen Labelling Matters

Allergen labelling is not just about compliance — it’s about safety and trust. Many people in India suffer from allergies to common ingredients such as milk, eggs, soy, nuts, wheat, shellfish, and gluten. Without proper labelling, consumers might unknowingly consume products that could cause severe allergic reactions.

The FSSAI recognizes this concern and has made allergen labelling a mandatory part of India’s food safety ecosystem. Its regulations ensure that every packaged food clearly identifies the presence or possible presence of allergens, giving consumers confidence and clarity while buying food products.

FSSAI’s Key Rules on Allergen Labelling

Under the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Labelling) Regulations, FSSAI has set strict guidelines for how food allergens should be displayed on product packaging.

Here are the main requirements:

• Declaration of Major Allergens
  Food businesses must declare the presence of the following eight major allergens if they are part of the product or used in the manufacturing process:
  
  

• Milk and milk products (including lactose)
• Eggs and egg products
• Fish and shellfish
• Peanuts and tree nuts
• Soybeans
• Cereals containing gluten (like wheat, barley, oats, and rye)
• Sulphites (used as preservatives in some processed foods)

• Clear and Bold Labelling
  The allergen statement must be clearly printed in bold, legible font, close to the ingredient list. For example:
  
  

• “Contains: Milk, Wheat, and Soy”
• “Manufactured in a facility that also processes peanuts and tree nuts.”
  
  

• ‘May Contain’ Statements for Cross-Contamination
  When allergens are not ingredients but may accidentally enter the product during manufacturing, FSSAI allows the use of precautionary labels like “May contain traces of nuts”. This ensures transparency about potential risks.
  
  

• Separate Declaration for Gluten-Free Products
  Products claiming to be gluten-free must meet FSSAI’s standards (less than 20 mg/kg of gluten content) and carry the label “Gluten-Free” in bold letters. This is especially helpful for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
  
  

• Language and Clarity
  The allergen information should be provided in English or Hindi, ensuring easy understanding for Indian consumers. Labels must avoid technical jargon that could confuse buyers.

How Businesses Should Implement Allergen Labelling

For any food business — whether large-scale manufacturer, restaurant chain, or small local producer — following FSSAI’s allergen labelling norms is essential for legal compliance and consumer trust.

Here are key steps to ensure smooth implementation:

• Maintain Ingredient Transparency
  Keep detailed records of every ingredient, flavouring, and additive used in production. Identify all potential allergens, even those in small quantities.

• Use Dedicated Equipment for Allergen-Free Production
  To avoid cross-contamination, food processors should use separate tools and machinery for allergen-free products wherever possible.

• Train Staff on Allergen Awareness
  Employees involved in cooking, packaging, or serving must understand the importance of allergen control. A single mistake can cause harm and lead to legal penalties for the business.

• Regularly Audit Suppliers and Ingredients
  Businesses should verify that their suppliers also follow allergen control measures. A small lapse in ingredient sourcing can impact the entire food safety chain.

• Display Allergen Information on Menus (for Restaurants and Cafes)
  Even food outlets and catering services should clearly indicate allergens on menus, such as “Contains Nuts” or “Gluten-Free Option Available.”

FSSAI’s Role in Monitoring and Enforcement

FSSAI actively monitors compliance through inspections, market surveillance, and sample testing. If a product fails to declare allergens or makes false claims, the authority can impose penalties, issue recalls, or suspend the FSSAI licence of the food business operator.

The regulator also collaborates with laboratories and state authorities to check food labels and verify their accuracy. This ensures that both local and imported food products meet India’s allergen labelling requirements.

Additionally, FSSAI’s Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020 introduced clearer allergen display rules, aligning India’s standards with global practices like those of the Codex Alimentarius Commission.

How Allergen Labelling Benefits Consumers

The impact of FSSAI’s allergen labelling efforts goes far beyond compliance — it protects public health and promotes awareness.

• Safety for Sensitive Individuals: People with food allergies can confidently select products that suit their health needs.
• Transparency and Trust: Honest labelling builds credibility for food brands and enhances consumer confidence.
• Reduced Health Risks: Clear warnings prevent accidental consumption and reduce emergency medical cases.
• Informed Decision-Making: Consumers can choose between allergen-free or gluten-free options based on accurate product data.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite progress, certain challenges remain:

• Inconsistent Awareness: Many small and unorganized food businesses are unaware of allergen rules.
• Labelling Errors: Some brands misprint allergen information or use confusing statements.
• Cross-Contamination Risks: Shared facilities increase the possibility of trace allergens in supposedly allergen-free products.

Conclusion

Allergen labelling isn’t just a technical regulation — it’s a life-saving measure. FSSAI’s focus on transparent and accurate allergen information reflects its commitment to protecting millions of consumers across India. For food businesses, these regulations offer a framework to maintain trust, expand responsibly, and align with international food safety standards.

Ultimately, allergen awareness bridges the gap between consumer safety and business accountability — creating a healthier, more transparent food ecosystem for everyone.

Note: To learn more about FSSAI allergen labelling guidelines or to get help with your food business registration, visit https://fssairegistrar.com/ .