Ensuring your food product has a clear and compliant label is essential for both consumer safety and regulatory adherence. Here are the 9 key elements every food label must include:
- Description or Technical Name of the Food The label must clearly state what the product is. This helps customers quickly understand what they are purchasing. For example, "Whole Grain Oats" or "Organic Almond Butter."
- Net Weight or Volume The amount of food contained in the package must be clearly displayed. Whether it’s in grams, kilograms, millilitres, or litres, customers need to know the exact quantity they are buying.
- Date Marking & Lot/Batch Number Display the "Best Before" or "Use By" date to indicate the product’s shelf life. Lot or batch numbers are critical for tracing and recalling products in case of issues or defects.
- Nutrition Information Panel The nutrition facts, including calories, fats, proteins, carbohydrates, sugars, and sodium, must be provided. This helps customers make informed dietary decisions.
- Ingredient List Ingredients should be listed in descending order by weight, allowing consumers to see what makes up the majority of the product. It's a transparency factor for health-conscious buyers.
- Allergen Declaration It's vital to indicate if the food contains allergens like nuts, dairy, gluten, or soy. This protects consumers with allergies from unintended exposure.
- Manufacturer’s Name and Address The name and contact details of the manufacturer or distributor must be included. This gives customers a point of contact for any queries or issues they may have about the product.
- Country of Origin The label must specify where the food was produced or manufactured. This is particularly important for products with global distribution or that follow specific quality standards by region.
- Storage Instructions Clearly mention how the product should be stored to maintain its freshness and safety. For example, "Refrigerate after opening" or "Store in a cool, dry place."
Ensuring that all these elements are present on your food label will not only keep you compliant with food safety regulations but also build trust with your customers and safeguard their well-being.
