If you’re selling packaged food in the United States, your label isn’t just a branding tool — it’s a legal document. The FDA requires specific information on every food label, and missing even one element can result in fines, recalls, or being barred from retail shelves. Here’s a practical checklist of what must appear on your food label.
The Required Elements
Statement of Identity: What the product is, in common or usual terms (“Organic Tomato Sauce” not “Maria’s Special Recipe”). This must be prominently displayed on the front panel (the Principal Display Panel, or PDP).
Net Quantity of Contents: How much product is in the package, expressed in both metric and U.S. customary units (e.g., “12 fl oz (355 mL)”). This must appear in the bottom 30% of the PDP.
Ingredient List: All ingredients listed in descending order by weight. Sub-ingredients of compound ingredients must also be listed.
Allergen Declaration: The eight major allergens (milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans) plus sesame must be clearly declared, either within the ingredient list or in a separate “Contains” statement.
Nutrition Facts Panel: Required on most packaged foods, using the FDA’s standardized format. Includes serving size, calories, fats, sodium, carbohydrates, sugars, added sugars, protein, and specific vitamins and minerals.
Name and Address: The name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor.
Common Pitfalls
Using outdated Nutrition Facts formats (the FDA updated the format in 2020), missing allergen declarations, making health claims without FDA authorization, and using misleading product names are among the most common compliance issues. When in doubt, consult the FDA’s Food Labeling Guide or work with a regulatory consultant.
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