Packaging and Labelling Basics for Indian Supplement and Ayurvedic Brands

Packaging and labelling are where product, brand and regulation meet. Mistakes here can mean reprinting costs, delays or compliance issues. This article offers general guidance. It is not legal advice, so verify current rules for your product category.

Primary and secondary packaging

Primary packaging touches the product: bottles, jars, blister packs, sachets, pouches, tubes or tins. Secondary packaging includes cartons, outer boxes and inserts. Shipping cartons form a third layer for transport.

Choosing the right pack

Consider these factors:

• Protection. Moisture, light and air can degrade herbal products. Choose materials that suit the product, and confirm with stability data.
• Compatibility. The material must not react with the product. Oils, acidic liquids and alcohol-based products need suitable containers.
• Dosing and usability. Caps, measuring devices, dispensers and easy-open closures improve usability.
• Tamper evidence. Seals and shrink bands build trust.
• Cost and MOQ. Custom designs often carry higher minimums than stock items.
• Sustainability. Recyclable or reduced-material designs are increasingly valued by buyers.

What goes on a label

Required content varies by category, but typically includes the product name, ingredients or composition, quantity, manufacturer and marketer details, licence numbers, batch number, manufacturing and expiry details, directions for use, storage conditions and any required warnings. Ayurvedic medicines, foods and cosmetics each follow different labelling rules. Many products also need specific symbols or statements.

Claims on the label

Use only claims you are allowed to make and can support. Avoid statements suggesting cure or prevention of disease unless your product category and approvals permit them. Check that images, names and taglines do not imply more than the product can justify.

Artwork and approval process

1. Prepare label content with your manufacturer or adviser.
2. Check each statement against current rules.
3. Create the artwork with correct dimensions and print areas.
4. Review a proof, and check spelling, numbers, dates and licence details carefully.
5. Approve in writing before printing.

Batch coding and traceability

Batch number, manufacturing date and expiry date are generally printed or embossed during packing. Make sure there is space on the pack for these, and that the print stays legible.

Common mistakes

• Designing before finalising the product category.
• Leaving too little space for mandatory information.
• Choosing a pack before testing stability.
• Ordering large print runs before final approval.
• Copying a competitor's label without checking its compliance.

Who is responsible?

Usually the brand owner is responsible for label content, even when a contract manufacturer packs the product. Clarify roles, such as who sources packaging, who stores it and who approves artwork, in your agreement.

Planning ahead

Packaging lead times can be longer than production lead times, especially for custom printed items. Start packaging decisions early in product development.

Practical tips before you print

Ask for a physical sample of the pack filled with your product, and keep it for a few weeks to check for leakage, label peeling, colour change or odour transfer. Test how the label looks after handling, transport and exposure to moisture. A small trial can reveal problems that a digital proof never shows, and it costs far less than correcting a full print run.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use the same label for different packs? Label content must match each pack's details, such as quantity, so adaptations are usually needed.

Do I need regulatory review of labels? It is wise to have them reviewed by someone familiar with the rules for your category.

Can I print before the product is approved? It is safer to wait until formula, claims and pack are final.

Ready to plan your pack?

Share your product and packaging ideas, and request a quote. We will discuss what is practical for your brand.