Let’s understand this: Imagine going into some local grocery store, checking out the dairy section, and picking up a bottle of milk. You will probably check the expiration date, look at the price, and maybe even glance at the nutritional information. But did you know that the packaging, labeling, and weighing of that product are all governed by strict rules? Yes, that’s where the LMPC certificate for dairy products comes in.
The Legal Metrology Packaging and Labeling Certification (LMPC) is a necessary certification that ensures dairy products comply with India’s packaging and labeling regulations. But why is this certification important? Is it just formality or does it serve a real purpose? You can check the blog to know all the solutions for your queries.
Why is the LMPC Certificate Important for Dairy Products?
The LMPC certificate is important for many reasons:-
- Consumer Protection – It assures that consumers are provided with accurate information about the dairy products they buy. This includes proper labeling, nutritional values, expiry dates, and weight.
- Fair Trade Practices – The certification is the evidence and also saves from malpractices, such as underweight packaging or misleading labels, by ensuring that products meet certain metrological standards.
- Regulatory Compliance – Dairy items manufacturers, packers, and sellers should comply with the LMPC certification to avoid legal penalties and to ensure their products are market-ready within the legal framework of India.
- Health and Safety – The certification confirms that dairy products have the right ingredients and that the labeling reflects the right health-related data, such as calorie count, fat content
- Brand Reputation – For dairy product brands, having an LMPC certification enhances their credibility and trust with consumers, proving they follow government standards.
Who needs the LMPC Certificate for Dairy Products?
Anyone who is a manufacturer, importer, packer, or distributor of dairy products in India is required to obtain the LMPC certification for packaging and labeling. This includes products like milk, cheese, butter, yoghurt, ice cream, and other milk-based products.
- Producers of dairy should confirm that their packaging complies with all essential legal LM standards before the product reaches the market.
- Importers of dairy items have to get the LMPC certificate for any imported dairy items that will be sold within India.
Required Documents for LMPC Certificate for Dairy Products
To apply for the LMPC Certificate for dairy items important documents are:-
- Application Form
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Product Details
- Labeling Proof
- Authorization Letter
- Test Reports
- Proof of Address
- GST Registration/Number
- Trade License and IEC Certificate
- Partnership Deed
- Trademark Certificate
- FSSAI Registration/License
- Proof of Premises
- Business Registration
Procedure to Apply for LMPC Certificate for Dairy Products
The procedure to apply for the LMPC certificate for dairy products includes the following steps:-
- Submission of the Application – Fill out the application form and collect all necessary documents, including packaging and labeling details.
- Inspection – The regulatory authority will inspect the packaging and labeling of the dairy product to verify compliance with legal metrology standards.
- Payment of Fees – Pay the required fee for the certification procedure. The fee may vary based on the type of the product and the certification agency.
- Assessment – The regulatory body will assess the submitted documents and perform quality
- Issuance of Certificate – Once all checks are complete and compliant will be issued, authorizing the product sale.
How Long Does It Take to Get an LMPC Certificate for Dairy Products?
The time it takes to obtain an LMPC certificate for a dairy product usually varies, but generally, it may usually take 2 to 6 weeks. This period depends on the difficulty of the product and the thoroughness of the inspection process.
Can Dairy Products Be Sold Without the LMPC Certificate?
No, dairy products cannot be sold in India without the LMPC certificate. It is a mandatory requirement under the Legal Metrology Act.
Consequences for Violating LMPC Certification Regulation for Dairy Products
Violating the LMPC regulation can result in significant legal complexities, for instance:-
- Fines – The manufacturer or distributor can lead to fines for non-compliance with packaging and labeling standards.
- Product Seizure – Non-compliant products might result in product seizure from the market by authorities.
- Legal Penalties – Legal action might be taken against the business, and in extreme cases, the business can be shut down.
- Loss of Reputation – Non-compliance with legal standards can significantly harm the brand’s reputation and customers’ trust.
It’s illegal for all if they are working in manufacturing, importing, and distributing dairy products without the LMPC certificate. You should go for a registration of LMPC certificate if you want to work in the market tension free.
Conclusion
The LMPC certificate is an important part of the regulatory framework that ensures fairness and safety in the sale of dairy products packaged and labelled under legal requirements, it saves customers, ensures fair market practices, and supports health and safety. According to the regulatory perspective the LMPC certification assures that dairy producers, importers, and distributors comply with legal frameworks, maintaining fairness in the market and saving from wrong practices such as underweight packaging or misleading labels.
What is the Full Form of LMPC?
The full form of LMPC is “Legal Metrology packaged commodity”.
Can Imported Dairy Products Have an LMPC Certificate?
Yes, imported dairy products sold in India should also comply with the LMPC certification requirements.
