Food additives are substances added to food during its processing, packaging, or storage to improve its taste, appearance, shelf life, or nutritional value. In India, the use of food additives is regulated under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to ensure public health and food safety.
For small businesses, especially those involved in food manufacturing, processing, or packaging, understanding food additives is essential. Whether you're starting a food startup, launching a packaged snack brand, or running a home-based kitchen, you must ensure that any additives used in your products are approved by FSSAI and used within the permissible limits. Common categories of additives include preservatives, flavour enhancers, sweeteners, colours, and stabilizers.
From a compliance point of view, the correct declaration of food additives on labels is mandatory. When applying for an FSSAI license, you must disclose the ingredients used, including any additives, to avoid future legal issues. Improper use or non-disclosure can result in penalties or cancellation of your food license.
Staying updated on FSSAI guidelines and ensuring your additive use aligns with national food safety norms is not just about compliance—it also builds consumer trust in your brand. For businesses looking to simplify the FSSAI registration and compliance process, FinTax24 offers expert support and guidance to help you stay on the right track.
In short, food additives are more than just ingredients—they're a regulated part of your food product that require careful attention to ensure legal compliance and consumer safety.