07 Mar Small Business Guide to Food Labeling

Small Business Guide to Food Labeling

For small food businesses, accurate and compliant food labeling is essential for both regulatory compliance and consumer trust. This guide covers the key components of food labeling, the regulatory requirements, and best practices for creating labels that meet FDA, USDA, and Health Canada standards.

Why Food Labeling Matters

Food labels provide consumers with critical information about the product, including its ingredients, nutritional value, allergens, and expiration date. Proper labeling ensures:

• Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to FDA, USDA, and Health Canada guidelines.
• Consumer Safety: Preventing allergic reactions and misleading claims.
• Marketability: Building brand credibility and consumer trust.

Key Food Labeling Requirements

1. Product Identity

• The common or usual name of the product must be displayed prominently.
• The name should accurately reflect the nature of the food.

2. Net Quantity Statement

• Indicate the net weight, volume, or count of the product in both metric and U.S. customary units.

3. Ingredient List

• Ingredients must be listed in descending order by weight.
• Common allergen declarations (e.g., milk, eggs, nuts, soy, wheat) must be included as per FALCPA (Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act).

4. Nutrition Facts Panel

• Required for most packaged foods under 21 CFR 101.
• Must include:
  • Serving size and servings per container
  • Calories
  • Macronutrient breakdown (fat, carbs, protein)
  • Micronutrients (e.g., sodium, vitamins, minerals)
• Exemptions apply to small businesses based on production volume.

5. Manufacturer Information

• Include the business name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor.

6. Date Marking and Storage Instructions

• Use “Best By,” “Use By,” or “Sell By” dates where applicable.
• Storage instructions should be included if temperature-sensitive.

7. Claims and Certifications

• Nutrient content claims (e.g., “low-fat,” “high protein”) must comply with FDA definitions.
• Health claims must be scientifically supported.
• Certifications such as organic (USDA Organic), non-GMO, gluten-free, or kosher require proper verification.

Compliance with Different Regulations

• FDA (U.S.): Covers most packaged foods, requiring compliance with 21 CFR regulations.
• USDA (U.S.): Oversees labeling for meat, poultry, and egg products.
• Health Canada: Regulates food labeling under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR) and the Food and Drug Regulations (FDR).

Best Practices for Small Businesses

1. Use Labeling Software: Tools like ESHA Genesis, LabelCalc, or ReciPal can assist with compliance.
2. Work with a Food Scientist: Ensure that nutrition analysis and ingredient declarations meet legal standards.
3. Stay Updated on Regulations: Labeling laws change; regularly check FDA and Health Canada updates.
4. Design Consumer-Friendly Labels: Use clear fonts, contrasting colors, and intuitive layouts for easy readability.
5. Test Labels for Compliance: Have labels reviewed by a compliance expert before printing.

Conclusion

Food labeling is a critical aspect of small food business operations. By following regulatory guidelines and best practices, businesses can ensure compliance, protect consumers, and enhance brand credibility.

Need assistance with food labeling compliance, nutrition analysis, or regulatory approvals? Contact United Food Labs for expert guidance!