Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about private label, formulation, manufacturing, licensing, testing and labelling. If yours is not here, call or WhatsApp +91 89279 52124.
Working with us
What does Red Bottle Consultancy do?
We help brands launch and run beverages, from idea to launch. Formulation is done in our own laboratory. Private label production, contract manufacturing, FSSAI licensing, lab testing, and labelling and packaging are arranged through our partner network. You can take one service or the whole journey.
How much does it cost?
Formulation projects start from ₹50,000, depending on the drink and the number of tasting rounds. Other services are quoted separately, so you pay only for the ones you choose. Tell us what you need and we will send a written quote.
Do I have to buy every service?
No. Choose only what you need: a formula, a licence, a lab report, production setup, or the complete project. Tell us what you already have and we start from there.
Who do you work with?
First-time founders, established brands adding a product, distributors building house brands, and businesses from other categories entering beverages.
How do I get started?
Call or WhatsApp +91 89279 52124, or send an enquiry through the contact page. A short description of the drink, your target price and rough volume is enough for a first conversation.
Do you work with brands anywhere in India?
Yes. We are not tied to one city or region and work with brands across India.
Private label
What is private label beverage manufacturing?
A licensed manufacturer produces a drink that you sell under your own brand. You own the brand, pricing and customer relationship, and the manufacturer provides the plant and know-how, so you can launch without building a factory.
Do you develop an exclusive formula for my brand?
Yes. Our own lab develops a formula to your brief. The formula developed for your brand is yours, and we do not share client formulas with third parties.
What is the difference between private label and contract manufacturing?
In contract manufacturing you supply the formula and specification and a plant produces it. In private label, the formula is developed for your brand and a manufacturer produces it under your name. Both let you sell under your own brand, and many projects use elements of both.
What is the minimum order quantity?
It depends on the plant, the pack format and the formula. Share your target volume and we will tell you what is realistic, including pilot batch options.
How long does a private label project take?
It depends on the number of formula rounds, licensing, packaging lead times and plant availability. We give you a realistic plan after the first conversation.
Formulation
Do you formulate in your own lab?
Yes. Beverage formulation and recipe development are done in our own laboratory.
What do I receive at the end of formula development?
A master formula sheet, stability results, a nutritional panel for FSSAI labelling, production parameters for scale-up and regulatory guidance for your category.
Which beverage categories can you formulate?
Energy and functional drinks, carbonated soft drinks, juices and nectars, RTD tea and coffee, sports and hydration drinks, zero-sugar drinks, wellness drinks and Indian traditional beverages.
Can I take the formula to another manufacturer?
Yes. The formula package is written so that a qualified manufacturer can reproduce it. We can also arrange production through our partners.
Manufacturing and production
Do you own manufacturing plants?
No. We arrange production through FSSAI-licensed partner plants and coordinate the work. Our own laboratory is used for formulation.
Can you decide where my drink should be produced?
Yes. We recommend the type of plant and the partners that suit your pack format, volume, timeline and budget, and we run trial batches before commercial production.
Can you manage production for me?
Yes. We can set the system up and step back, or keep managing production, quality checks and delivery coordination for you.
Which packaging formats can be arranged?
Cans, PET and glass bottles, and other formats depending on the partner plant.
Licensing, testing and labelling
Does my brand need its own FSSAI licence if a contract manufacturer produces the drink?
Yes. The manufacturer holds the production licence, but your brand still needs its own FSSAI registration or licence as the owner and seller. The manufacturer licence does not cover your business.
Do you help with FSSAI licensing?
Yes. We arrange licensing support through experienced partner consultants and keep compliance in mind during formulation and labelling.
What lab testing do I need?
Typically nutritional analysis for your label, microbiological and chemical safety tests, and shelf-life studies. We arrange testing through partner laboratories and explain the results.
Can you review my label before I print?
Yes. A label and claims review before printing avoids reprinting costs. We also arrange label production through partners.
Aluminium cans
Do you supply aluminium cans?
Yes. We supply 250ml, 330ml and 500ml aluminium cans, plain or custom printed, alongside your project or on their own.
Do I need to use cans?
No. Cans are one packaging option. We help you compare cans, PET and glass for your drink and channel before you decide.