Our food and drink products often come with clear veg and non-veg labels on their packaging. But now, the Indian Government requires soaps, shampoos, toothpastes and other personal care products to also display clear vegetarian and non-vegetarian signs on their packs. Here’s why and what this new rule means.
New Veg And Non-Veg Labels For Personal Care Products
The Centre has announced new packaging rules for toiletries. According to India Today, your shampoos, toothpaste, cosmetics and other products will now come with a clear veg and non-veg label on their packs. This move aims to make it easier for consumers to identify the product’s origin while shopping in the market.
Reportedly, the Central Government has amended the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, to specify the labelling requirements for these products. Under the new rules, products of vegetarian origin will have to display a green dot, while products of non-vegetarian origin will either carry a red or a brown dot.
Also Read: FSSAI Proposes Nutrition Tables Instead Of Warning Labels On Packaged Food; What It Means?
Here’s What It Means For Consumers
According to The Economic Times, the veg or non-veg label must be displayed at the top of the main display panel of the package. This placement will make it easier for consumers to identify the nature of the product quickly while shopping. Not just shampoos or toothpaste, the new rule also covers personal care items and cosmetic products. The amendment was notified in the Gazette on September 21, 2026. The rule came into effect from the date of publication in the Official Gazette.
Now, let’s talk about what this means for consumers. Apart from checking the product type with a quick look, a consumer won’t need to read the tiny list of ingredients on the back to know whether it contains any products of non-vegetarian origin.
They will be easily able to spot products made with animal-derived ingredients in everyday items. This rule is important as it helps people follow their personal beliefs and stops confusion about what is going on their skin or hair.
Also Read: Veg vs Non Veg’ Food Fight At Vivek Agnihotri & Pallavi’s Home
Do you think bringing veg and non-veg labels to toiletries is a great move?
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FAQs
What does a green dot on a product mean?
A green dot means the product is of vegetarian origin.