How to Sell Indian Food Products Online in USA via Amazon and Shopify

Imagine an American family enjoying a warm plate of Dal Makhani with Basmati Rice, or an Indian expat in New York savoring homemade Achar and Parathas—all because you made it possible!

Indian food is taking over the global market, with spices, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals becoming household staples in the USA. With more than 4 million Indian-Americans and a growing interest in ethnic cuisines, demand for authentic Indian food products has skyrocketed.

Did you know?
In 2023-24, India’s exports reached USD 778.21 billion, and food products make up a significant portion. More sellers are now looking to sell Indian food on Amazon USA and through their own Shopify stores. But entering the market isn’t just about listing products—you need to understand FDA approvals, packaging rules, customs clearance, and marketing strategies.

If you want to tap into this massive opportunity, this guide will walk you through how to start selling Indian food products in the USA, step by step.

Here’s what we’ll cover:
How to get FDA approval for food export to the USA
Packaging and labeling requirements for the US food market
Amazon FBA vs. Shopify – Which is better?
Customs clearance for Indian food exports
Cost of shipping Indian food to USA buyers
How to market Indian food products online in the USA

Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Choose the Right Indian Food Products for the USA Market

Not all Indian food products can be exported due to FDA regulations, shelf life, and demand. Choosing the right items will increase your chances of success.

Best Selling Indian Food Products in the USA

Indian Spices and Masalas – Turmeric, Cumin, Cardamom, Garam Masala
Ready to Eat Meals – Biryani Mix, Dal Makhani, Paneer Butter Masala
Flours and Grains – Basmati Rice, Wheat Flour, Millet Flour
Pickles and Chutneys – Mango Pickle, Lime Pickle, Garlic Chutney
Dry Snacks and Namkeens – Khakhra, Bhujia, Banana Chips
Sweets and Desserts – Gulab Jamun Mix, Rasgulla, Jalebi Mix
Beverages – Masala Chai, Ayurvedic Herbal Teas

Pro Tips:

• Avoid perishable items like dairy products or fresh sweets.
• Choose products with a long shelf life (6+ months).
• Use vacuum-sealed packaging to keep products fresh and meet US food safety standards.

Step 2: Get FDA Approval and Comply with US Food Regulations

Before you start selling, your products must meet US food import laws.

How to Get FDA Approval for Food Export to the USA

FSSAI Certification – Required in India before exporting.
FDA Registration – Mandatory for selling food in the USA.
USDA Organic Certification – If selling organic food.

Packaging and Labeling Requirements for the US Food Market

All food packages must include:
Ingredients List (in English)
Expiry Date and Nutritional Info
Manufacturer Details and Allergen Warnings

Pro Tip:
Non-compliant products can be banned or fined in the USA. Work with an export specialist to avoid mistakes.

Step 3: Where to Sell – Amazon USA or Shopify

Now comes the big decision—should you sell on Amazon USA or Shopify?

Option 1: Selling Indian Food on Amazon USA

Amazon USA is the easiest and fastest way to start selling.

Why Choose Amazon

Massive customer base – Millions of people search for Indian food.
Amazon FBA for Indian food products in the USA – Amazon handles shipping and returns.
Built-in advertising tools – Boost sales easily.

How to Sell Indian Food on Amazon USA (Step-by-Step Guide)

• Create an Amazon Seller Account – Sign up on Amazon Seller Central and choose the Professional Plan ($39.99/month).
• List Your Products – Upload high-quality images and descriptions with keywords like Buy Indian Spices Online USA.
  Choose Fulfillment Method:

• FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) – Amazon stores and ships your products. (Recommended)
• FBM (Fulfillment by Merchant) – You handle storage and shipping.
• Ship Your Products to Amazon Warehouses – Use ShipGlobal, FedEx, or DHL.
• Run Amazon Ads and Promotions – Use Amazon PPC ads to increase visibility.

Pro Tip:
Use FBA for Indian food products in the USA to reduce shipping costs and make selling hassle-free!

Option 2: Selling Indian Food via Shopify USA

If you want full control over your brand and higher profits, Shopify is the best choice.

Why Choose Shopify

• Build your own brand – No competition from other sellers.
• No Amazon fees – Keep 100% of profits.
• Freedom in marketing and pricing – Set your own rules.

Best Shopify Stores for Selling Indian Groceries in the USA

• Spice Jungle – Focused on premium Indian spices
• The Curry Guy Shop – Specializes in ready-to-cook curry kits
• Desi Basket – Offers a variety of Indian grocery products

Step 4: Customs Clearance and Shipping Indian Food to the USA

Shipping food products requires customs clearance and proper documentation.

Customs Clearance for Indian Food Exports

Get an Importer of Record (IOR) for bulk shipping.
Ensure FDA, FSSAI, and labeling compliance.
Work with customs brokers for smooth clearance.

Cost of Shipping Indian Food to USA Buyers

FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) – Lower shipping costs.
Direct Shipping – Use ShipGlobal, FedEx, UPS, DHL.
Bulk Shipments – Reduce per-unit shipping costs.

Conclusion: The Best Time to Start Selling is Now

Selling Indian food in the USA is a golden opportunity! Whether you’re targeting Indian expats, health-conscious Americans, or spice lovers, the market is booming.

Follow FDA regulations
Use Amazon FBA for hassle-free shipping
Build a Shopify store for long-term brand growth
Run ads and influencer marketing to drive traffic

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to sell Indian food on Amazon USA, start your Shopify store, or expand your export business, this is it!

With the right approach, you can turn your passion for Indian food into a profitable international business.

Frequently Asked Questions