1. The Ingredient List
This is arguably the most important section. Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, meaning the first few ingredients make up the bulk of the product. If sugar (or its many aliases like high-fructose corn syrup, dextrose, or maltodextrin),
refined flour (maida), or hydrogenated oils appear at the top, you should be cautious, no matter the health claims on the front. A shorter, simpler ingredient list with names you recognise is often a sign of a less processed food. This simple check tells you more about the product's true nature than any marketing slogan.
2. The 'Best Before' and 'Expiry' Dates
These two dates are not the same and the difference is crucial for your safety. The 'Best Before' date is about quality. The food is at its peak freshness, taste, and nutritional value until this date. It may still be safe to eat after, but the quality might decline. The 'Expiry Date' (or 'Use By' date), however, is a safety deadline. Consuming a product after its expiry date can be harmful to your health, as the food may no longer be safe. Always check these dates to ensure freshness and avoid health risks.
3. The Nutritional Facts Panel
This panel breaks down the energy (calories) and nutrients per 100g/ml and often per serving. One of the most common tricks is using an unrealistically small serving size to make numbers look better. Always check the serving size and how many servings are in the packet. To get a true picture, you might need to multiply the calories, sugar, and sodium by the number of servings you actually consume. Focus on key metrics like total sugar, sodium, and saturated fats to make healthier comparisons between products.
4. Allergen Declaration
For individuals with food allergies, this information is vital. FSSAI regulations mandate that common allergens like milk, soy, nuts, eggs, and wheat (gluten) must be clearly declared. This information is often found within the ingredient list, sometimes highlighted in bold text, or in a separate 'Contains' statement. Even if you don't have allergies, being aware of this section can help you understand more about the product's composition. Always double-check this section if you or someone you're shopping for has food sensitivities.
5. FSSAI Logo and License Number
The presence of the FSSAI logo and a valid license number is your assurance that the product complies with the food safety standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. This mark indicates that the manufacturer is registered and adheres to regulatory requirements for safety and hygiene. It is a fundamental check for product authenticity and safety. Any packaged food product sold in India must have this information clearly displayed.
6. Vegetarian or Non-Vegetarian Mark
A unique and mandatory part of Indian food labelling, these symbols instantly tell you about the product's dietary suitability. A green dot inside a green square signifies that the product is vegetarian. A brown triangle inside a brown square indicates it is non-vegetarian. This is crucial for people with specific dietary preferences or religious beliefs. The rule applies even if only a minor ingredient is from a non-vegetarian source. This clear, visual cue helps consumers make quick and confident choices aligned with their values.
