For sports nutrition, dietary supplements, and functional food, the same legal requirements apply as they do for regular food, among other specific regulations.
Food labels play a crucial role in informing consumers about ingredients, origin, and the safety of food products. Therefore, food labels are subject to strict legal requirements in many countries to ensure that consumers receive accurate and relevant information. In some cases, it is also necessary to register product labels with authorities. Below, we will explain some of the fundamental legal requirements for labeling:
Ingredient List:
One of the most important labeling requirements is listing all ingredients in descending order of their weight percentage. This allows consumers to identify potential allergens and make informed decisions.
Font Size:
Some mandatory information, such as the ingredient list, nutrition table, and allergens on a label, must be at least 1.2 millimeters in height, measured at the x-height. Of course, the letters can be larger as well. However, there are exceptions and variations in font size requirements, such as the declaration of the fill quantity.
Allergen Labeling:
Foods that frequently contain allergens like milk, eggs, nuts, wheat, soy, etc., must prominently highlight these allergens on the label to warn people with allergies of potential risks.
Field of Vision:
The field of vision on packaging is an area that can be seen or read from a certain angle or viewpoint. It includes the food's name, net quantity, or alcohol content for alcoholic beverages with more than 1.2% vol.
Expiration Date:
The expiration date or minimum durability date (MDD) must be clearly indicated on the label to ensure consumers can assess the freshness and quality of the product.
Net Quantity:
The quantity of the product in the container or packaging must be stated in weight or volume to provide consumers with a clear overview of the actual quantity.
Country of Origin:
The origin of food, especially for certain products like meat, fish, fruits, and vegetables, must be clearly indicated to ensure transparency for consumers.
Nutrition Labeling:
In some countries or for specific foods, providing nutrition information such as calories, fat, carbohydrates, proteins, and nutrients on the label is mandatory.
Avoiding Deceptive Advertising:
Food labels must not contain misleading information or false claims about the properties or health benefits of a product.
Packaging Materials:
Information about the recyclability or disposal of packaging materials is also required in some regions to consider environmental impacts.
GMO Labeling:
In some countries, foods containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) must be appropriately labeled.
Veterinary Marks for Meat:
Meat products require specific veterinary marks and health certificates to ensure food safety.
It's essential to note that legal requirements for food labels can vary from one country to another. Therefore, food manufacturers must always stay informed about the applicable laws and regulations in their region and ensure that their labels meet the required standards to ensure consumer safety and avoid legal issues.
Don't worry; we have experts on our team who deal with this every day. They know exactly what to look out for. In addition to product development, design, and production planning, our professionals are also available to assist with declaration and legal compliance questions.
Get in touch with us, and together we'll create your perfect private-label product.
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