Understanding Food Labels: What to Look For

Every packaged food product in India must carry certain information on its label as per FSSAI regulations. Here's how to decode them.

The Must-Check Items

1. FSSAI License Number

Every packaged food must display a 14-digit FSSAI license number. This confirms the product meets food safety standards. No number? Don't buy it.

2. Ingredients List

Listed in descending order by weight. The first ingredient makes up the largest portion. Watch out for:

• Hidden sugars: Sucrose, high-fructose corn syrup, maltodextrin


• Artificial colors: Listed as INS numbers (e.g., INS 110)


• Preservatives: Like sodium benzoate, BHA, BHT

3. Nutritional Information


Per 100g values help you compare products fairly. Key numbers to watch:

• Sodium: Under 500mg per 100g is reasonable


• Sugar: Check added sugar vs natural sugar


• Trans fat: Should ideally be 0g

4. Manufacturing & Expiry Dates


Always check both. A long shelf life often means more preservatives.

5. Veg/Non-Veg Symbol


The green dot (veg) or brown dot (non-veg) is mandatory in India.

Red Flags on Labels

• "Natural flavors" — often synthetic


• "No added sugar" — may still contain natural sugars


• "Light" or "Lite" — usually means less of one thing but more of another


• "Made with real fruit" — could be 1% real fruit

The Shrimati Choice Promise

We believe in complete transparency. Every Shrimati Choice product features:


• Full ingredient disclosure with no hidden additives


• Genuine nutritional information


• Clear manufacturing and expiry dates


• FSSAI certification on every product