July 9, 2003: For updated examples of nutrition labels
see Examples of Revised Nutrition Facts Panel Listing Trans Fat.
A Food Labeling Guide
Food Labeling CFR References
Questions | Answers |
1. Are mail order sales covered by the food labeling laws? | The same labeling laws apply to all categories of retail sale, including mail orders. Foods sold by mail order must be fully labeled. |
2. Are foreign language labels permitted? | ![]() 21 CFR 101.15(c)(2) |
3. On labels that have two languages, may nutrition
information be provided in one "bilingual" "Nutrition Facts" label?
When nutrition labeling must be presented in a second language, the nutrition information may be presented in separate nutrition labels for each language or in one label with the second language, translating all required information, following that in English. Numeric characters that are identical in both languages need not be repeated. | |
4. Where should the country of origin be declared on an imported food? | ![]() (U.S. Department of Treasury regulation) |
5. Which foods require warning statements? | ![]() (See also updated information on shell eggs† and unpasteurized juice‡.) 21 CFR 101.17, Sec. 403(o) of FD&C Act |
6. Is it permissible to use stickers to make changes in labeling? | Correcting label mistakes in any manner is acceptable if the final label is correct and complies with all regulations at the time of retail sale. The stickers should not cover other mandatory labeling, and should adhere tightly. |
7. Are there restrictions on label artwork? | ![]() 21 CFR 1.21(a)(1), 101.3(a), 101.105(h) |
8. Does FDA approve labels before printing? | No, it is the responsibility of the manufacturer or importer of a food to comply with current food labeling regulations. |
*The section of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act related to warning information on health risks of saccharin was repealed December 21, 2000. (U.S. Code Sec. 343a).
†Federal Register; December 5, 2000: The label of all shell eggs, whether in intrastate or interstate commerce shall bear a "Safe Handling Instructions" statement.
‡Federal Register; July 8, 1998: Juices that have not been specifically processed to prevent ... pathogens shall bear a warning statement. (See also What Consumers Need To Know About Juice Safety, September 1998.)