Veg and Non-Veg Labelling Rules for Toiletries

The Indian government has amended the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 to require origin-based symbols on selected personal care products. The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Fourth Amendment Rules, 2026 were notified on 21 September 2026 and came into force on publication in the Official Gazette.

Legal Metrology Framework

The Legal Metrology Act, 2009 provides the statutory basis for packaged commodity labelling in India. The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 prescribe declarations for pre-packaged goods, including net quantity, manufacturer details, and consumer-facing information.

Labelling Requirement for Personal Care Products

The amended rules require a green dot for products of vegetarian origin and a red or brown dot for products of non-vegetarian origin. The symbols must be placed at the top of the principal display panel on packages of soaps, shampoos, toothpastes, cosmetics, and toiletries.

Rule Change and Regulatory Context

A similar labelling requirement existed under Rule 6(8) since 2014. The 2026 notification inserts the provision as Rule 6(4A)(d) and omits the earlier rule, creating a revised legal framework for the same category of products. The Delhi High Court dealt with this issue in February 2026 and directed the regulatory authorities to take a clear position on labelling for cosmetics and toiletries.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Legal Metrology Act, 2009 governs standards for weights, measures, and packaged commodities in India.
• The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 apply to declarations on pre-packaged goods sold in India.
• The principal display panel is the main visible surface of a package used for consumer information.
• Green and red or brown dots are used in India for product-origin labelling in specified contexts.

Consumer Information Rules

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution administers legal metrology matters for packaged commodities. The amendment applies to soaps, shampoos, toothpastes, cosmetics, and toiletries sold in packaged form.