Have you ever considered the complexities of food packaging? Beyond its appearance, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes to ensure compliance with strict regulations.

From the layout of text to the materials used, every element of food packaging must meet government requirements. Failure to adhere to these standards can result in penalties or even prevent your product from reaching store shelves.

For food brands, designing packaging involves more than aesthetics. Functional aspects such as size, durability, and special features must also be considered. One of the most crucial elements is ensuring that your food package meets the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines. These guidelines ensure that food products sold in the U.S. are safe, properly labeled, and suitable for consumer use.

This article provides an overview of the key components of FDA-compliant food packaging. For complete details, consult the FDA’s Food Labeling Guide on their official website.

General Requirements for Food Packaging Labels

Placement of Label Statements

Label statements are required declarations about a product, including its type, brand, and quantity. These statements can be placed in two ways:

  1. On the Principal Display Panel (PDP): All required statements are located on the front of the package.
  2. Split Placement: Key information is displayed on the PDP, while other details are included on the information panel, which is typically on the panel immediately to the right of the PDP.

The Principal Display Panel (PDP)

The PDP is the part of the package most visible to consumers at the point of purchase. It serves as the “face” of your product, and its clarity is crucial.

Key items that must be displayed on the PDP include:

  • Statement of Identity: Clearly identifies the food type.
  • Net Quantity Statement: Specifies the amount of product inside.

These elements should be bold, prominent, and easy to understand, leaving no room for consumer confusion.

dietary supplement packaging

The Information Panel

Located immediately to the right of the PDP, the information panel provides additional details about the product and manufacturer. This section typically includes:

  • Name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor.
  • Complete ingredient list.
  • Nutrition labeling.
  • Allergy information, if applicable.

To ensure compliance:

  • Use a readable font size (at least 1/16 inch based on the lowercase “o”).
  • Avoid overcrowding with unnecessary elements like barcodes or decorative graphics.
  • Clearly separate required information from optional content.
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Tips for Creating FDA-Compliant Packaging

Design Considerations for the Information Panel

  • Follow specific type size requirements for headings and content. For example, the “Nutrition Facts” heading must be in a larger font than other text in the section.
  • Do not include unrelated material between required statements.
  • Include a qualifying phrase if the manufacturer listed is not the actual producer, such as “manufactured for” or “distributed by.”

Stay Up-to-Date

Regulations evolve frequently, and it’s essential to keep your packaging aligned with the latest FDA requirements. Regularly review updates to ensure your labels meet current standards.

Partnering with a Reliable Food Packaging Company

Creating FDA-compliant packaging is only one part of the process. It’s equally important to work with a packaging provider that understands compliance requirements and offers flexibility for future updates.

At Colorful Packaging, we specialize in crafting custom flexible packaging that stands out while adhering to strict regulatory standards. Our digital printing technology allows us to deliver high-quality pouches tailored to your product’s unique needs.

With extensive experience in packaging design, we help brands showcase their products effectively, ensuring compliance and market appeal. From small startups to established businesses, we support your journey every step of the way.

Why Choose Colorful Packaging?

  • Customization Options: Create designs that highlight your brand’s identity.
  • FDA Compliance Expertise: Stay confident that your labels meet all legal requirements.
  • Eco-Friendly Solutions: We offer sustainable packaging materials to align with modern consumer values.
  • Affordable Pricing: Flexible solutions for brands of all sizes.

Let us help you take your product to the next level. Contact us today for FDA-compliant packaging that captures attention and builds trust.

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No matter what you sell, compliant and attractive packaging can make all the difference. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the complexities of food packaging regulations while creating a design that resonates with consumers.