Starting a Private-Label Spice Range Sourced from India
Packing spices under your own brand in India can cost much less than packing them after import, and the goods arrive shelf-ready. Here is how a private-label project usually runs.
1. Choose the range
Start with your fastest sellers, usually turmeric, chilli, cumin, coriander and garam masala, then add blends. A focused first order of 10–20 products is easier to manage than a full range.
2. Pick the pack format
- Stand-up pouches with zip locks: light and cheap to ship.
- PET or glass jars: premium shelf look, but heavier and more fragile.
- Boxes with inner liners: common for masala blends.
Each format and size has a minimum print run for the packaging, which usually decides your minimum order more than the spice itself.
3. Artwork and labelling
You supply or approve the design; the exporter checks the dielines and print specs. Labels must meet your country's rules: product name, ingredients, allergens, net weight, best-before date, batch number, country of origin and the importer's name and address.
4. Samples and approval
Approve the product samples and a printed packaging proof before production. Agree the specifications (moisture, mesh size, colour, microbiology) in writing.
5. Timelines
Printing packaging usually takes two to four weeks, then production and packing, then shipping. Plan your launch date with this in mind, and keep some stock in reserve so you are never empty on the shelf while the next container is at sea.
