How to Read a Wellness Drink Label in India

Abhinav Gupta

Last updated: 11 October 2026

To read a wellness drink label in India, look for the FSSAI licence number, the ingredients list, the nutrition information per serving, the best-before and storage details, the batch and packed-on date, and any warnings. Be wary of bold health claims that the label cannot back up.

The parts of a label to check

  1. FSSAI licence number. Packaged food sold in India should show one. You can read about licences on the FSSAI website.
  2. Ingredients. Listed in descending order of weight. Shorter lists are easier to understand.
  3. Nutrition information. Usually given per serving or per 100 ml. Check which one.
  4. Vegetarian mark. A green dot in a square.
  5. Best before and storage. For example, 'best before 12 months of opening' and 'refrigerate after opening'.
  6. Batch number and packed-on date.
  7. MRP, net quantity and manufacturer details.
  8. Warnings. Who should avoid it.

Preservatives, sugar and colours

Look for added sugar, added colours and preservatives in the ingredients. A brand should be clear about them. For example, Mevva's sea buckthorn juice contains 0.1% food-grade sodium benzoate as a preservative and has no added sugar. Mevva's apple cider vinegar has no artificial colours or flavours.

Serving size matters

A concentrated product is taken in small servings. Compare nutrition per serving, not per bottle, and check how many servings a bottle gives.

Claim check

  • Words like 'cure', 'detox' or 'fat burner' are warning signs.
  • 'Organic' needs certification.
  • 'Lab tested' should come with a report you can ask for.

Examples from Mevva

On the label of Mevva Apple Cider Vinegar you will find the nutrition information per 15 ml, the storage instructions, the batch number, the packed-on date and a warning that it is not recommended during ulcer, low blood pressure or kidney disease unless advised by a healthcare professional. See also Mevva Sea Buckthorn Juice.

Frequently asked questions

What should be on a food label in India?

The FSSAI licence, ingredients, nutrition information, net quantity, MRP, dates, batch number and vegetarian or non-vegetarian mark.

How do I check an FSSAI number?

Use the official FSSAI website.

Is a short ingredients list better?

It is easier to understand, but read what is in it.

What does 'best before' mean?

It indicates quality over time, not necessarily a safety cut-off.

Related reading

These are food products and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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