Introduction

In today’s health-driven market, the phrase “High Protein” has become one of the most powerful claims on food and beverage packaging. From protein bars and cereals to smoothies and fortified drinks, consumers actively look for products that help them achieve fitness and nutrition goals.

But here’s the catch: not every product can legally use this claim. National and international regulations, including those by FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India), clearly define when a product qualifies as a source of protein or can be marketed as high in protein.

As a leading Food Regulatory Consultant and Food Safety Consultant, we guide food businesses through these compliance requirements—helping brands stay legally sound while building consumer trust.

Protein Claims for Solid Foods

If you are manufacturing or marketing a solid food product such as snacks, protein bars, cereals, or ready-to-eat meals, you must check whether your product meets the thresholds for protein content.

• Source of Protein → At least 6 g protein per 100 g

• High in Protein → At least 12 g protein per 100 g

👉 Need help reformulating your product to meet these levels? Explore our Food Product Development Services.

Protein Claims for Liquid Foods

For liquid products like milkshakes, protein drinks, smoothies, or fortified beverages, the thresholds are lower, since liquids naturally contain less solid matter:

• Source of Protein → At least 3 g protein per 100 ml

• High in Protein → At least 6 g protein per 100 ml

So, a 200 ml protein drink labeled “high protein” must provide at least 12 g protein per serving.

💡 Our Label Validation & Compliance Services can ensure your packaging is 100% compliant before launch.

Why These Standards Matter

Making a protein claim is not just about marketing—it’s about regulatory responsibility. Mislabeling can lead to non-compliance, penalties, or even product recalls.

Meeting the right thresholds ensures:

• ✅ Full regulatory compliance with FSSAI and global food labeling standards

• ✅ Transparency with consumers and long-term brand trust

• ✅ Competitive positioning in the fast-growing high-protein product category

Role of a Food Regulatory Consultant & Food Safety Consultant

For food entrepreneurs and manufacturers, navigating nutrition claim regulations can be complex. This is where our Food Business Consulting Services come in:

• Label validation & compliance checks (nutrition facts, protein content claims, ingredient declaration)

• Regulatory interpretation of FSSAI rules and international claim standards

• Product formulation guidance to help you meet “high protein” thresholds during R&D

• Documentation & approvals for FSSAI or export markets

• Ongoing compliance audits to ensure continued trust and safety

With our expertise, you can confidently market your products as “High Protein” while staying fully compliant.

Key Takeaways

Before you label your product as “High Protein,” check whether it meets the minimum standards:

• Solids → 6 g (source) | 12 g (high protein) per 100 g

• Liquids → 3 g (source) | 6 g (high protein) per 100 ml

Getting this right helps your brand:

• Avoid regulatory risks

• Build consumer trust

• Compete effectively in the health-focused food market

Conclusion

The “High Protein” claim is a powerful growth driver for food and beverage brands—but only if done legally and transparently. As your trusted Food Regulatory Consultant and Food Safety Consultant, we ensure your products meet all labeling and compliance standards while giving your brand a strong position in the health-conscious marketplace.

🚀 Looking to launch or validate your next high-protein product?
Contact us today for end-to-end Food Business Consulting Services.