New GST on Food in India: What’s Taxable and What’s Not
Quick Summary
- Unpackaged and unbranded staples like wheat and rice are taxed at 0% GST, while packaged and branded food items are taxed at 5% GST.
- Processed and preserved foods have a GST rate of either 5% or 18%, depending on the type of product.
- Restaurant food, whether from non-AC or AC restaurants, and takeaway services are taxed at 5% GST, but outdoor catering services have an 18% GST.
- Luxury food items such as chocolates and frozen pizza are taxed at 18% GST.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables are exempt from GST, but packaged or branded grocery items bought online usually attract a 5% GST.
Food is one of life’s essentials—but when it comes to taxes, not all food items are treated equally. In India, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) applies differently based on the type of food, whether it’s packaged or fresh, and where it’s consumed. In this blog, we’ll break down GST on food items, explain the applicable rates and HSN codes, and help you understand what you’re really paying for.
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New GST Rate on Food Items in India
The Government of India is updating GST rates effective after 22 Sep 2025. Below are the expected new GST rates for food items (no compensation cess).
| Food Type | New GST Rate |
|---|---|
| Unpackaged, unbranded staples (like wheat, rice) | 0% |
| Packaged & branded food (like branded flour, rice) | 0% |
| Processed & preserved foods | 5% or 18% (depending on product) |
| Restaurant food (non-AC) | 5% |
| Restaurant food (AC) / takeaway | 5% |
| Luxury food items (chocolates, frozen pizza) | 18% |
Old GST on Food: Overview
Food products in India fall under multiple GST slabs—0%, 5%, 12%, and 18%, depending on factors like processing, branding, packaging, and point of sale (retail vs restaurant).
| Food Type | GST Rate |
|---|---|
| Unpackaged, unbranded staples (like wheat, rice) | 0% |
| Packaged & branded food (like branded flour, rice) | 5% |
| Processed & preserved foods | 12% |
| Restaurant food (non-AC) | 5% |
| Restaurant food (AC) / takeaway | 5% |
| Luxury food items (chocolates, frozen pizza) | 18% |
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HSN Codes for Food Items
HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) codes help classify food items under GST.
| Food Category | Common HSN Code | GST Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Rice, Wheat, Pulses | 1006, 1001, 07134000 | 0% / 5% |
| Flour, Besan, Maida | 1101, 1106 | 0% / 5% |
| Dairy (Milk, Curd, Butter) | 0401 – 0405 | 0% / 5% / 12% |
| Frozen Food, Ready-to-eat | 1604, 2106 | 12% / 18% |
| Sweets & Bakery Items | 1704, 1905 | 5% / 18% |
| Chocolates & Candy | 1806 | 18% |
Note: Items without branding or packaging generally fall under 0% or 5% tax.
GST on Packaged vs Unpackaged Food
The biggest difference in food taxation lies in whether it is packaged and branded or not.
- Unpackaged and unbranded food: 0% GST
- Packaged and branded food: 5% GST
Example:
Loose atta = 0% GST
Branded atta in sealed pack = 5% GST
This rule aims to keep basic foods affordable while still taxing processed or commercial-grade items.
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GST on Restaurant Food
Restaurant services are treated differently under GST.
| Restaurant Type | GST Rate |
|---|---|
| Non-AC Restaurants | 5% (No ITC) |
| AC Restaurants & Takeaway Services | 5% (No ITC) |
| Outdoor Catering Services | 18% (With ITC) |
ITC = Input Tax Credit (claimable by businesses only)
Even if you order food online via Swiggy or Zomato, GST is charged at 5% on the bill. The delivery fee may attract 18% GST separately.
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What About Sweets and Bakery Items?
- Plain bread (unbranded) = 0%
- Branded bakery items (cake, muffins) = 5%
- Biscuits (packaged) = 18%
- Chocolates = 18%
If you buy sweets from a sweet shop that also sells meals, GST on sweets is 5%, while restaurant-prepared items (like thali or chaat) are taxed at 5% or 18% depending on the setting.
Impact on Consumers
The GST system aims to strike a balance:
- Basic food items are tax-free, benefiting lower-income groups.
- Processed and luxury foods carry higher GST, as they are considered non-essential.
- Restaurant food is uniformly taxed, but without input credits to avoid cascading tax.
This helps simplify compliance and pricing across India.
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Unique Features of BUSY Accounting Software for the Food Industry
- Track food inventory batch-wise with manufacturing, MRP, and expiry dates.
- Set alerts for expiry stock to avoid wastage.
- Define multiple units of measurement for food items and packaging.
- Generate detailed sales reports by item, time slot, or counter.
- Transfer stock across branches and monitor movement.
- Set role-based access for billing staff, and managers.
- Print barcodes and QR codes for packaged food items.
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Final Thoughts
The GST on food in India is designed to keep essentials affordable while taxing luxuries and commercial services. Whether you’re buying groceries or dining out, understanding how GST works ensures you’re aware of what you’re paying for. For businesses, it also helps in accurate pricing and compliance.
