The Non-Vegetarian Mark is a mandatory symbol used in India to indicate that a food product contains ingredients derived from animals, including meat, poultry, fish, or eggs. It is represented by a brown-colored triangle inside a square, and must be clearly visible on the product's packaging.
This mark is regulated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to help consumers make informed dietary choices based on their food preferences, religious beliefs, or health concerns. It is especially important in a diverse country like India, where vegetarianism is widely practiced, and food choices can be sensitive.
From a business and compliance perspective, any individual or company involved in the manufacture, sale, packaging, or distribution of non-vegetarian food products is legally required to display this symbol. This includes restaurants, cloud kitchens, food manufacturers, and packaged food sellers. Not using the correct food labeling can lead to penalties or action under FSSAI regulations.
If you're starting a food business or planning to sell pre-packaged food items, getting FSSAI registration is the first step. Once registered, ensure that your packaging complies with FSSAI labeling rules, including the correct display of the Non-Vegetarian Mark if applicable. For a smooth and hassle-free registration process, you can explore FSSAI registration solutions offered by FinTax24.
Understanding and following food labeling requirements like the Non-Vegetarian Mark not only keeps you compliant but also builds trust with your customers by being transparent about your ingredients.