General Food Labeling Requirements as per USFDA
Where should label statements be placed on containers and packages?
There are two ways to label packages and containers:
- Place all required label statements on the front label panel (Principal Display Panel-PDP)
- Place certain specified label statements on the PDP and other labeling on the information panel (the label panel immediately to the right of the PDP, as seen by the consumer facing the product).
What are the PDP and the alternate PDP?
The PDP, is that portion of the package label that is most likely to be seen by the consumer at the time of purchase. Many containers are designed with two or more different surfaces that are suitable for display as the PDP.
What label statements must appear on the PDP?
Place the statement of identity, or name of the food, and the net quantity statement, or amount of product, on the PDP and on the alternate PDP. The required type size and prominence are discussed in sections 4 and 5 of this guidance.
Which label panel is the information panel?
The information panel is the label panel immediately to the right of the PDP, as displayed to the consumer. If this panel is not usable, due to package design and construction, (e.g., folded f laps), then the information panel is the next label panel immediately to the right.
What is information panel labeling?
The phrase “information panel labeling” refers to the label statements that are generally required to be placed together, without any intervening material, on the information panel, if such labeling does not appear on the PDP. These label statements include the name and address of the manufacturer, packer or distributor, the ingredient list, nutrition labeling and any required allergy labeling.
What type size, prominence and conspicuousness is required?
For information panel labeling, use a print or type size that is prominent, conspicuous and easy to read. Use letters that are at least one sixteenth (1/16) inch in height based on the lower-case letter “o”. The letters must not be more than three times as high as they are wide, and the lettering must contrast sufficiently with the background so as to be easy to read. Do not crowd required labeling with artwork or non-required labeling.
What is the prohibition against intervening material?
Information that is not required by FDA is considered intervening material and is not permitted to be placed between the required labeling on the information panel.
What name and address must be listed on the label?
Food labels must list:
- Name and address of the manufacturer, packer or distributor. Unless the name given is the actual manufacturer, it must be accompanied by a qualifying phrase which states the firm’s relation to the product
- Street address if the firm name and address are not listed in a current city directory or telephone book
- City or town;
- State (or country, if outside the United States); and
- ZIP code (or mailing code used in countries other than the United States).
Download, Read & Share:
- Guidance for Industry: Food Labeling Guide
For more information, please Chat with us Ask The Expert.
