Stories
Vegetarian or Non-Vegetarian? Check the Symbol on Your Shampoo, Soap, Toothpaste!
- •The central government has amended the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, to specify labeling rules for vegetarian products.
- •New rules mandate a green dot on packaging for products made with vegetarian ingredients.
- •Products from non-vegetarian sources must display a red or brown dot or mark.
- •Consumers can now easily identify if soaps, shampoos, toothpastes, and other cosmetics are vegetarian or non-vegetarian by checking this symbol.
- •The symbol must be clearly displayed on the main display panel, simplifying product choices for customers.
Key Questions Answered
The central government has amended the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, requiring products made with vegetarian ingredients to display a green dot, while non-vegetarian or animal-derived products must feature a red or brown dot. This symbol must be prominently displayed at the top of the main display panel.
The notification specifically mandates clear labeling for everyday personal care and toiletry items, including soaps, shampoos, toothpastes, and other cosmetics. Manufacturers must ensure the symbol is printed directly above the main section where the image and product name appear.
The new rules allow shoppers to easily identify whether a personal care item contains vegetarian or non-vegetarian components by simply looking at the colored dot on the package. Customers no longer need to separately check the fine print for ingredient lists.
