How to Comply with Food Packaging Label Requirements
When consumers pick up a food product, they trust that the label provides accurate and essential information. But behind every ingredient list and nutrition fact is a strict set of regulations designed to ensure food safety and transparency. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees these regulations. The organization ensures that all foods — whether produced domestically or imported—are “safe, wholesome, and properly labeled.” Failure to comply can result in recalls, fines, or even legal action. That’s why it’s so important for food packaging labels to adhere to legal requirements.
It can be difficult for food manufacturers to keep up with regulations on food packaging labels. That’s why we’ve developed this guide. In it, you’ll find the basic elements you must include on your products. However, it’s important to note that all products are different. It’s best to consult with an experienced packaging manufacturer before putting your products out on the market.
What is Required on a Food Label
The following components are legally required on all food packaging labels within the United States. However, each product may require other components. It’s best to consult with an experienced packaging manager for your specific needs.
Statement of Identity
The statement of identity is the legal name of the food, the common name of the food, or a description of the food. The name must go on the principal display panel (PDP) as one of the primary elements.
Net Quantity of Contents
The amount of food in the package should be displayed as a weight, fluid measure, or number of items.
Ingredient Statement
Ingredients should be listed in order by weight. The most predominant food must be listed first, with the least predominant food listed last. This must be listed on the same panel as the manufacturer information and nutrition facts panel.
Nutrition Facts Panel
The nutrition facts panel must have information on serving size, servings per container, and nutrients.
Allergen Declaration
According to the FDA, approximately 2% of all adults and 5% of infants and young children in the U.S. suffer from food allergies. Each year, roughly 30,000 individuals require emergency room treatment and 150 individuals die because of allergic reactions to food.
The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 requires manufacturers to list certain allergens, including milk, eggs, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, wheat, peanuts, soybeans, and sesame. There may be new allergens added to this list at any time. In fact, sesame was only added to this list in 2021 through the FASTER Act. That’s why it’s so important to work with an experienced label provider for your food products. They can help identify what you need to disclose for your specific product.
Name and Address of Manufacturer, Packer, or Distributor
The FDA requires the statement of the place of business to include the street address, city, state, and zip code. This allows consumers to easily identify the responsible party for the product, enabling them to contact the company if there are any issues with the food.
Best Before, Expiration, or Sell-By Date
It’s best practice for food products to include a best before, expiration, or sell-by date to ensure consumer safety.
Need Help with Your Food Packaging Labels? Turn to Craftsman Label
Navigating food packaging label compliance can be complex, but working with an experienced partner like Craftsman Label ensures your labels meet all regulatory requirements while maintaining a strong brand presence. With our expertise, we help businesses create labels that are both legally sound and visually appealing.
We offer high-quality, customized solutions tailored to the food industry. From durable, eye-catching labels to innovative packaging options, we’ve got you covered. Our commitment to precision, compliance, and exceptional customer service makes us the ideal partner for brands looking to stand out on the shelf. Contact us today to learn more.
