How to Identify Organic Food in India: A Complete Consumer Guide

Organic food is gaining popularity in India as more people aim to eat clean and responsibly. However, with so many products claiming to be organic, it can be confusing for shoppers to identify what is truly organic and what is merely cleverly marketed. Understanding how to accurately identify organic food not only empowers you to make better choices but also protects your health, your family, and the environment.

In India, organic food refers to products grown and processed without the use of synthetic chemicals, pesticides, genetically modified organisms or artificial additives. Organic farming aims to use natural resources and traditional methods, prioritising soil health and sustainability.

Regulations require strict compliance with certain standards before a product can be labelled as organic. Recognising these standards is key for Indian shoppers.

Organic farming benefits both human health and the planet in several ways:

• Reduces the intake of chemical residues often found in conventionally grown food.
• Helps maintain soil fertility and promotes the use of eco-friendly farming methods.
• Protects water resources by avoiding toxic agricultural runoff.
• Supports biodiversity by encouraging crop rotation and natural pest control.

Choosing organic supports these values, but it is important to ensure you purchase genuinely certified organic products.

1. FSSAI Jaivik Bharat

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issues the Jaivik Bharat logo for products verified as organic under Indian standards. This mark assures buyers of compliance with national regulations.

2. India Organic

This mark is provided under the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP). It ensures the product follows strict organic guidelines from farming to processing.

3. PGS India Organic

PGS stands for Participatory Guarantee System. It certifies small farmers and community-based organic groups who follow recognized organic practices. The PGS India Organic label is typically found on local and group-sourced organic products.

4. Private Organic Certification Marks

Several private bodies also offer organic certification in India. While these can be trusted when reputable, always confirm their credibility and check if they are recognised by FSSAI and other government bodies.

It is vital not to confuse “organic” with “natural”. Here is how they differ:

Even if a food item is certified organic, label reading remains crucial because:

• Some organic packaged foods may contain unhealthy ingredients like excess sugar, salt or trans fats.
• “Organic” only refers to the agricultural practice, not the overall nutritional quality.
• Unscrupulous brands might use organic ingredients as a marketing tool rather than providing a genuinely healthy product.

Take a moment to check the ingredient list before making a decision. Apps like FactsScan can help you break down ingredient lists and nutritional panels in simple, consumer-friendly language.

Food packaging can sometimes use terms that sound reassuring but do not guarantee organic status. Be wary of claims such as:

• “All natural”
• “Farm fresh”
• “Chemical free”
• “From organic sources”

To avoid confusion, always:

• Look for official certification marks
• Examine the ingredient list
• Check for FSSAI licensing details and certification body numbers

Every genuine organic product in India should display:

1. A certification or approval number linked to an accredited certifying agency.
2. Batch numbers and packaging dates for traceability.
3. Contact details of the certifying agency or regulatory body on the packaging.

Consumers can verify these details:

• By visiting official certification websites
• Calling customer service numbers listed on packaging
• Scanning labels with a reliable food label checking app like FactsScan for instant clarity

Modern shoppers do not have time to memorize each certification mark or ingredient. A trusted food label checking app like FactsScan simplifies the process. With FactsScan, you can:

• Instantly scan and decode product labels using your smartphone
• Access explanations of certifications and ingredient safety
• Get red flag alerts on misleading claims or unhealthy ingredients
• Track your chosen products for transparency over time

This smart, easy approach empowers everyone to buy healthy with confidence.

Identifying organic food may seem overwhelming, but with attention to certification marks, a habit of reading ingredient lists, and the help of user-friendly tools like FactsScan, anyone can shop smart. Remember, organic does not always mean healthy, so each food label deserves a closer look. Choose wisely, verify authenticity, and prioritize your health with every bite.