What Information Should be on Food Packages?
Food packaging information can be a communications challenge and a confusing regulatory landscape. That’s where we come in. We can help you create food packaging that clearly communicates essential information and meets regulatory requirements.
Packaging information requirements for food products.
The type of information that needs to be on a food package varies depending on what kind of product it is, so it's important to make sure that the type of product aligns with the correct required label.
For example, frozen pizzas or ice cream pints in grocery stores or convenience stores will need nutrition facts labels. The required information include: serving size; calories; fat content; sodium content; carbohydrate content; fiber content; protein content
In addition to these nutritional facts labels, there may also be other types of nutrition information (such as vitamins) required for specific types of foods like milk or cheese products. The information on these labels must be accurate and truthful.
In some cases, the FDA may also require that certain products have warning labels about possible health risks or side effects.
Food labeling requirements for food products.
The Fair Packaging and Labeling Act requires that a label be affixed to each package of food, which must contain specified information about the product. This applies both to food sold in stores and online.
There are two types of food packaging: primary and secondary. Primary packaging includes the container or wrapper in which the product is sold, while secondary packaging includes any additional wrappings that come with it.
A label is required on all food packages, but there are two types: mandatory and voluntary. Mandatory labeling refers to the information that must be included on a product's packaging, while voluntary labeling refers to other information that companies may choose to include.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for mandating what must be labeled on a product's packaging. The FDA also regulates the voluntary labeling of food products.
What information should be on food labels?
Food labels are subject to a lot of regulation, ensuring consumers have the information they need to make informed decisions.
The following information should be included on food labels:
Ingredients: The ingredients list provides what’s in the product. It allows consumers to protect themselves against certain ingredients or allergic reactions.
Nutritional information: This includes calories and fat content, as well as vitamins and minerals that are important for a healthy diet.
Expiration date: This is the date after which a product shouldn't be consumed. The expiration date may be different from the sell-by date because it takes into account storage conditions and other factors that may affect how long something will last. It's important to note that this isn't an indication of whether or not a product has gone bad; it’s only an indication when it might lose its flavor or nutritional integrity.
Best by date: This is the date by which a product will still maintain its best flavor and texture, but not necessarily its nutritional value.
Allergen Warning: If there is an allergy warning, it must be stated clearly on the package since some people may have serious reactions if they eat products containing allergens such as nuts or shellfish. Allergens must be listed by name at least twice somewhere on the label so consumers know which ingredients may cause allergic reactions (for example “may contain peanuts/tree nuts).
Let our food packaging experts help with the challenge.
Thomas|Ferrous has extensive experience in CPG food packaging. Our expertise, proven track record of success, and deep understanding of the needs surrounding food packaging makes us a go-to agency for all things packaging. Contact us today and we’ll talk.
