Food labeling and packaging regulations — Glossary · Specialist Certification in Food Law and Regulations (United Kingdom)

Additives – Substances added to food to achieve a specific technological… #

Related terms: preservatives, colourants, flavour enhancers. Explanation: Additives must be listed in the ingredient list by their specific name or approved code. Example: E200 (sorbic acid) appears as “sorbic acid” on the label. Practical application: Manufacturers must verify that each additive is on the UK authorised list and declare it correctly. Challenge: Keeping up‑to‑date with amendments to the authorised list and ensuring traceability of additive batches.

Allergen Labelling – Mandatory declaration of the 14 allergens identified… #

Related terms: FALCPA, Precautionary Allergen Label (PAL). Explanation: Allergens must be highlighted in the ingredients list, either by using a contrasting font or a separate “Contains” statement. Example: “Contains milk, peanuts”. Practical application: Food businesses conduct allergen mapping to identify cross‑contamination risks. Challenge: Managing complex supply chains where raw materials may contain hidden allergens.

Alcoholic Beverage Labelling – Specific requirements for spirits, wine an… #

Related terms: ABV, duty, origin indication. Explanation: Labels must state the alcoholic strength by volume, the product category, and any geographical indication protected under UK law. Example: “Gin, 40% ABV, London Dry”. Practical application: Producers must calculate duty based on ABV and volume. Challenge: Ensuring compliance when reformulating to change ABV.

Artificial Sweeteners – Non‑nutritive sweetening agents used to replace s… #

Related terms: E951 (aspartame), labeling thresholds. Explanation: Must be declared by name or E‑number; some require a warning statement for phenylalanine‑containing sweeteners. Example: “Contains aspartame – not suitable for phenylketonurics”. Practical application: Low‑calorie product developers must assess consumer perception of “artificial”. Challenge: Keeping label statements clear while meeting nutrition claim regulations.

Bag‑in‑Box (BiB) Labelling – Packaging format combining a plastic bag wit… #

Related terms: re‑use, recycling symbol. Explanation: The label must be affixed to the outer box and include ingredient, allergen and storage instructions that apply to the product inside the bag. Practical application: Beverage manufacturers use BiB for cost efficiency. Challenge: Ensuring label durability against moisture and preserving legibility throughout the product’s shelf life.

Best‑Before Date – Indicator of quality rather than safety for most foods #

Related terms: use‑by date, shelf‑life. Explanation: Must be expressed as “best before DD Month YYYY” and placed on the label where it is visible to the consumer. Practical application: Producers conduct stability testing to determine appropriate dates. Challenge: Communicating date information clearly for products with multiple packaging levels.

Carbon Footprint Labelling – Voluntary scheme indicating greenhouse‑gas e… #

Related terms: environmental claim, PAS 2050. Explanation: Any claim must be substantiated by a recognised methodology and must not be misleading. Practical application: Brands may display “Carbon neutral” after offsetting verified emissions. Challenge: Avoiding “green‑washing” accusations and meeting audit requirements.

CE Marking – Conformity marking for certain packaging materials #

Related terms: EU Toy Safety Directive, packaging waste regulations. Explanation: Not required for food packaging in the UK, but relevant for packaging that is also a product (e.g., reusable containers). Practical application: Manufacturers of reusable water bottles must ensure the CE mark is affixed where applicable. Challenge: Determining whether a packaging item falls under a product directive.

Chain of Custody (CoC) – Documentation tracing a product from origin to f… #

Related terms: traceability, batch number. Explanation: Required for certain certifications (e.g., organic, Protected Geographical Indication). Practical application: Food processors assign a unique batch code that links back to the supplier’s invoice. Challenge: Maintaining accurate electronic records across multiple stakeholders.

Clean‑Label Claim – Marketing term suggesting minimal processing or simpl… #

Related terms: natural, free‑from. Explanation: No specific legal definition exists, but claims must not be misleading under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. Practical application: Brands may advertise “no artificial preservatives”. Challenge: Supporting the claim with objective data to avoid regulator scrutiny.

Co‑Packaging – Use of multiple packaging components that function togethe… #

g., tray and film). Related terms: primary, secondary packaging. Explanation: All components that directly contact food must comply with the Food Contact Materials (FCM) Regulations. Practical application: Manufacturers must source FCM‑approved trays and films. Challenge: Coordinating supplier approvals for each component.

Colour Additives – Substances used to impart colour to food #

Related terms: E102 (tartrazine), natural colour. Explanation: Must be authorised and listed in the ingredient list; certain colours require a specific warning (e.g., for children). Example: “Contains tartrazine (E102)”. Practical application: Confectionery producers select approved colours for bright packaging. Challenge: Managing consumer concerns over synthetic colours.

Composition Declaration – Mandatory statement of the percentage of certai… #

g., meat, fish). Related terms: percentage, ingredient list. Explanation: Required for products where the name or presentation might mislead about the proportion of a key ingredient. Example: “Salmon 70%”. Practical application: Producers of mixed meat products must calculate percentages accurately. Challenge: Calculating percentages when recipes vary batch‑to‑batch.

Controlled Designation of Origin (CDO) – Protected status for foods with… #

Related terms: Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), PGI. Explanation: Labels must include the protected name and a statement of the geographical link. Example: “Stilton – Protected Designation of Origin”. Practical application: Artisanal cheese makers must ensure packaging reflects the PDO status. Challenge: Preventing infringement by unauthorised producers.

Country of Origin Labelling (COOL) – Requirement to indicate where a food… #

Related terms: origin, “Made in” statements. Explanation: Applies to most meat, fish, fruit, and vegetables; must be placed where it is easily visible. Practical application: Fresh produce exporters label cartons with “UK”. Challenge: Determining origin when multiple processing steps occur in different countries.

Cross‑Contamination Control – Measures to prevent unintended allergen tra… #

Related terms: segregation, cleaning protocols. Explanation: While not a labeling requirement per se, the presence of cross‑contamination may trigger a PAL. Practical application: Facilities implement dedicated equipment for nut‑free lines. Challenge: Documenting and proving the effectiveness of control measures to regulators.

Duty‑Free Labelling – Indication that a product is exempt from certain ta… #

Related terms: excise duty, VAT. Explanation: Must be accurate; false claims can lead to prosecution under the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979. Practical application: Export‑only alcoholic beverages may display “Duty‑free”. Challenge: Monitoring changes in tax status after product reformulation.

EU Nutrition Claims Regulation (UK retained) – Governs the use of nutriti… #

Related terms: nutrient content claim, reduction of disease risk claim. Explanation: Claims such as “low fat” or “high in fibre” must meet defined thresholds and be authorised. Practical application: Breakfast cereal labels may state “source of fibre”. Challenge: Keeping claim language consistent after Brexit amendments.

Food Additives (Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008) – UK retained – Core legisl… #

Related terms: positive list, maximum levels. Explanation: Only additives on the authorised list may be used, and each has a specified maximum level. Practical application: Confectionery producers calculate the maximum permissible sorbitol. Challenge: Conducting regular compliance checks as the list is updated.

Food Contact Materials (FCM) Regulations – Governs materials that intenti… #

Related terms: EU Regulation 1935/2004, migration testing. Explanation: Packaging must not transfer substances to food in quantities that could endanger health. Practical application: Packaging suppliers provide migration test reports for new PET bottles. Challenge: Interpreting migration limits for novel polymers.

Food Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013 – Provides the legal framework fo… #

Related terms: HACCP, hygiene standards. Explanation: While not a labeling rule, hygiene compliance impacts labeling, especially “use‑by” dates for perishable goods. Practical application: Meat processors set “use‑by” dates based on hygiene risk assessments. Challenge: Aligning hygiene‑driven date decisions with consumer expectations.

Food Information Regulations 2014 (FIR) – Primary UK legislation on food… #

Related terms: EU Food Information to Consumers (FIC), UK retained law. Explanation: Sets requirements for ingredient lists, allergen declarations, nutrition information, and date marking. Practical application: All pre‑packed foods must display a nutrition table unless exempt. Challenge: Interpreting exemptions for small‑scale producers.

Food Safety Authority (FSA) Guidance – Non‑binding advice on compliance #

Related terms: best practice, enforcement. Explanation: Provides detailed recommendations on allergen labelling, nutrition claims, and packaging safety. Practical application: Companies may cite FSA guidance in internal SOPs. Challenge: Guidance may evolve faster than legislation, requiring continuous monitoring.

Food Standards Agency (FSA) – UK – The regulatory body overseeing food la… #

Related terms: inspection, enforcement, policy. Explanation: Enforces FIR, monitors labelling compliance, and issues alerts on misleading claims. Practical application: Businesses may register for the FSA’s voluntary food labelling scheme. Challenge: Responding promptly to enforcement notices.

Food Traceability (Regulation (EC) No 178/2002) – UK retained – Requires… #

Related terms: batch code, rapid alert system. Explanation: Enables rapid withdrawal of unsafe foods. Practical application: Manufacturers assign a “lot number” that links to supplier invoices. Challenge: Integrating traceability data across ERP systems.

Front‑of‑Pack (FOP) Nutrition Labelling – Optional colour‑coded or symbol… #

Related terms: traffic light labelling, Nutri‑Score. Explanation: Must be accurate and not contradict the full nutrition table. Practical application: Snack producers may display a green “low salt” icon. Challenge: Avoiding inconsistencies between FOP and back‑of‑pack data.

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) Labelling – Mandatory for foods conta… #

9% GM material. Related terms: novel foods, EU Regulation 1829/2003. Explanation: The label must state “contains genetically modified …”. Practical application: Processors of corn‑derived ingredients test for GM content. Challenge: Managing supply‑chain segregation to meet low‑GM thresholds.

Geographical Indication (GI) Labelling – Protected names for regional foo… #

Related terms: PDO, PGI, Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG). Explanation: Must include the protected name and the geographical area. Example: “Scotch Whisky – Protected Geographical Indication”. Practical application: Distillers must ensure packaging includes the GI logo. Challenge: Preventing counterfeit use of GI names on imported products.

Guideline Daily Amounts (GDA) – Former front‑of‑pack format now largely s… #

Related terms: reference intake (RI), nutrition labelling. Explanation: Provided a percentage of recommended daily intake per portion. Practical application: Some legacy products still display GDA figures. Challenge: Updating labels to current reference intake values.

Health Claims (Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006) – UK retained – Statements l… #

Related terms: function claim, disease risk reduction claim. Explanation: Only authorised claims may be used, and they must be accompanied by a nutrition claim if required. Example: “Calcium helps maintain normal bones”. Practical application: Dairy companies use authorised calcium claims. Challenge: Monitoring the EU Register of Nutrition and Health Claims for updates.

Ingredient List – Mandatory declaration of all components in descending o… #

Related terms: quantitative ingredient declaration (QUID), additive listing. Explanation: Must be in a legible type size and language. Practical application: A chocolate bar list reads “sugar, cocoa butter, skimmed milk powder, emulsifier (soy lecithin)”. Challenge: Handling complex multi‑ingredient products where some constituents are themselves mixtures.

International Food Standard (IFS) – Private certification scheme for food… #

Related terms: GFSI, audit, compliance. Explanation: Covers product labelling, traceability and food safety management. Practical application: Exporters may require IFS certification to satisfy retail buyer specifications. Challenge: Maintaining certification across multiple sites.

Label Size and Font Requirements – Minimum legibility standards #

Related terms: type size, contrast. Explanation: Text must be at least 1.2 mm high for most packaging, and allergen information must be highlighted. Practical application: Designers use 8 pt font for ingredient lists on small sachets. Challenge: Ensuring compliance on very small or irregular packaging shapes.

Label Language – Required language(s) for the UK market. Related terms #

English, Welsh, Gaelic. Explanation: All mandatory information must be in English; additional languages are optional. Practical application: Products sold in Wales may include Welsh translations. Challenge: Managing multilingual packaging for cross‑border UK distribution.

Labelling for Infant Formula – Highly regulated to protect infants #

Related terms: EU Regulation 609/2013, FSANZ Code. Explanation: Must include a specific nutrition declaration, preparation instructions, and a warning that the product is not a breast‑milk substitute. Practical application: Manufacturers provide a “prepare with boiled water” statement. Challenge: Maintaining strict tolerances for nutrient content.

Labelling for Organic Products – Must display the EU organic logo and the… #

Related terms: EU Regulation 834/2007, soil association. Explanation: The label must state “Organic” and the name of the certifying body. Practical application: A cereal box shows the organic logo and “Certified by Soil Association”. Challenge: Preventing inadvertent mixing with non‑organic ingredients.

Labelling for Small‑Scale Producers – Exemptions for businesses with annu… #

Related terms: exemption, simplified label. Explanation: May omit nutrition information and certain mandatory statements, but allergen and ingredient declarations remain required. Practical application: A local jam maker lists only “Strawberries, sugar, lemon juice”. Challenge: Determining eligibility and ensuring other labelling obligations are still met.

Labelling for Ultra‑Processed Foods – Emerging focus on nutritional quali… #

Related terms: NOVA classification, front‑of‑pack warnings. Explanation: While not yet mandatory, many retailers request additional nutritional warnings (e.g., “high in sugar”). Practical application: Snack producers add a red “high sugar” icon. Challenge: Anticipating future regulatory moves and redesigning packaging.

Legislation Updates Post‑Brexit – Retained EU law with amendments #

Related terms: UK Reg 2021/2005, devolved administrations. Explanation: The UK has retained most EU food labelling rules but may diverge over time. Practical application: Companies monitor the UK government’s “Food Law” portal for changes. Challenge: Aligning UK compliance with parallel EU requirements for export markets.

Label Claims – “Free From” – Statements indicating absence of specific su… #

Related terms: gluten‑free, lactose‑free, nut‑free. Explanation: Must be accurate and based on defined thresholds (e.g., <20 ppm gluten). Practical application: A cereal may be labelled “gluten‑free” after testing. Challenge: Conducting regular testing to substantiate the claim.

Label Claims – “Low‑Fat” – Nutrition claim with defined limits #

Related terms: fat content, reference intake. Explanation: “Low‑fat” requires ≤3 g fat per 100 g (or ≤1.5 g per 100 kcal). Practical application: A yoghurt advertises “low‑fat” after meeting the threshold. Challenge: Reformulating to reduce fat while maintaining texture.

Label Claims – “No Added Sugar” – Claim indicating no sugars added during… #

Related terms: sugar‑free, reduced‑sugar. Explanation: Must not contain added sugars, but naturally occurring sugars may be present. Practical application: Fruit drinks may use “no added sugar” if sweetened only with fruit juice. Challenge: Communicating to consumers the distinction between added and intrinsic sugars.

Label Claims – “Organic” – Protected term under EU/UK organic regulation #

Related terms: certification, EU organic logo. Explanation: Only products meeting organic production standards may use the term. Practical application: A bakery displays the organic logo on its packaging. Challenge: Maintaining segregation of organic and conventional streams throughout the supply chain.

Label Claims – “Reduced Salt” – Nutrition claim requiring ≥25 % reduction… #

Related terms: salt content, reference product. Explanation: The reference product must be clearly identified on the label. Practical application: A soup brand states “reduced salt compared to original recipe”. Challenge: Selecting an appropriate reference and documenting the reduction.

Label Claims – “Source of” – Indicates that a product provides at least 1… #

Related terms: nutrient content claim, reference intake (RI). Explanation: Must be accompanied by the nutrient amount. Practical application: A cereal box states “source of iron (2 mg)”. Challenge: Ensuring the portion size used for the claim matches the serving size declared.

Label Claims – “Sugar‑Reduced” – Must show ≥30 % reduction in sugar compa… #

Related terms: sweeteners, sugar content. Explanation: The reference product must be identified, and the claim must be truthful. Practical application: A beverage advertises “30 % less sugar than original”. Challenge: Maintaining taste while cutting sugar.

Label Claims – “Vitamin‑Enriched” – Indicates addition of a vitamin to me… #

Related terms: fortification, nutrient addition. Explanation: Must meet the minimum amount specified in the regulation for the claim. Practical application: A breakfast cereal adds vitamin D to qualify as “vitamin D‑enriched”. Challenge: Verifying analytical data for each batch.

Label Format – “Front‑of‑Pack” – Space on the primary packaging visible t… #

Related terms: FOP, marketing panel. Explanation: Must not be deceptive and must be consistent with the back‑of‑pack information. Practical application: A snack bag uses a bright “high protein” badge on the front. Challenge: Balancing marketing appeal with regulatory compliance.

Label Format – “Back‑of‑Pack” – Area where mandatory information is usual… #

Related terms: nutrition table, ingredient list. Explanation: Must contain all required statements in a legible manner. Practical application: The back of a frozen pizza includes the ingredient list, allergens, and cooking instructions. Challenge: Space constraints on small packages.

Label Format – “Side Panel” – Used for supplementary information #

Related terms: storage instructions, recycling symbol. Explanation: Must still meet legibility standards. Practical application: A cereal box’s side panel carries the “store in a cool, dry place” note. Challenge: Ensuring side‑panel content is not overlooked by consumers.

Labelling for Alcoholic Drinks – “Drink‑Driving Warning” – Mandatory stat… #

Related terms: UK Road Safety Act, warning label. Explanation: Must read “It is illegal to drive a vehicle if you have more than 35 µg of alcohol per 100 ml of breath”. Practical application: Spirits bottles include the warning on the back label. Challenge: Integrating the warning without cluttering the design.

Labelling for Meat – “Country of Origin” – Must be indicated for fresh me… #

Related terms: COOL, origin labelling. Explanation: The label must state where the animal was slaughtered or the meat was produced. Practical application: Fresh pork cuts display “Product of the United Kingdom”. Challenge: Tracing origin when meat is sourced from multiple farms.

Labelling for Seafood – “Catch Area” – Requirement to specify the fishing… #

Related terms: FAO zone, sustainability claim. Explanation: Must indicate the region or water body where the fish was caught. Practical application: A salmon packet reads “Caught in the North Atlantic (FAO zone 27)”. Challenge: Obtaining accurate catch data from suppliers.

Labelling for Ultra‑High‑Temperature (UHT) Milk – Must include storage in… #

Related terms: shelf‑stable, refrigeration after opening. Explanation: Even though shelf‑stable, the label should advise consumers to refrigerate after opening. Practical application: A UHT milk carton includes “Keep refrigerated after opening”. Challenge: Preventing consumer confusion about product stability.

Labelling for Vegan Products – Not a legal claim but widely used #

Related terms: vegan society logo, plant‑based. Explanation: Must not contain any animal-derived ingredients; the claim must be truthful. Practical application: A plant‑based cheese displays the “Vegan” logo. Challenge: Verifying that all processing aids (e.g., enzymes) are also vegan.

Labelling for Weight‑Loss Products – Must include specific health warning… #

Related terms: medicinal claim, EFSA opinion. Explanation: Claims such as “helps lose weight” are considered medicinal unless supported by authorised health claims. Practical application: A diet shake must avoid unsubstantiated weight‑loss statements. Challenge: Differentiating between permissible nutrition claims and prohibited health claims.

Labelling for “Free From” Claims – Gluten – Must meet the <20 ppm thresho… #

Related terms: celiac disease, gluten‑free certification. Explanation: The product must be tested and certified to ensure gluten levels are below the limit. Practical application: A bakery obtains the “Gluten‑Free” certification and displays the logo. Challenge: Preventing cross‑contamination during production.

Labelling for “Free From” Claims – Lactose – Must contain ≤0 #

1 g lactose per 100 g. Related terms: lactose‑intolerant, dairy‑free. Explanation: The claim is permissible if analytical testing confirms the level. Practical application: A dairy‑free ice cream declares “lactose‑free”. Challenge: Sourcing lactose‑free ingredients and verifying supplier data.

Labelling for “Free From” Claims – Nuts – Must contain < 2 mg/kg of the s… #

Related terms: tree nuts, peanut allergy. Explanation: The claim must be supported by testing and appropriate cleaning procedures. Practical application: A confectionery product advertises “nut‑free” after validating the threshold. Challenge: Managing shared equipment lines.

Labelling for “Low‑Salt” Claims – Must contain ≤0 #

3 g salt per 100 g (or ≤0.3 g per 100 kcal). Related terms: reduced sodium, hypertension. Explanation: The claim is permitted only if the product meets the defined limit. Practical application: A soup can states “low‑salt” after reformulation. Challenge: Maintaining flavour while cutting salt.

Labelling for “Organic” – Certification Bodies – Organisations that audit… #

Related terms: Soil Association, Organic Farmers & Growers. Explanation: The label must display the certifier’s logo and registration number. Practical application: A vegetable pack shows the Soil Association organic logo. Challenge: Keeping certification current after audit cycles.

Labelling for “Reduced‑Sugar” Claims – Must show ≥30 % reduction in sugar… #

Related terms: sweetener, sugar content. Explanation: The reference product must be identified, and the reduction must be verifiable. Practical application: A cereal advertises “30 % less sugar than original”. Challenge: Ensuring the reference product is comparable and not misleading.

Labelling for “Source of Fibre” Claims – Must provide at least 15 % of th… #

Related terms: dietary fibre, nutrition claim. Explanation: The claim must be accompanied by the amount of fibre present. Practical application: A granola bar states “source of fibre (3 g)”. Challenge: Accurate fibre analysis and portion size definition.

Labelling for “Sugar‑Free” Claims – Must contain < 0 #

5 g sugars per 100 g. Related terms: zero‑sugar, low‑calorie. Explanation: The claim is permissible if the product meets the threshold and does not contain sugar alcohols that could be considered sugars. Practical application: A diet drink declares “sugar‑free”. Challenge: Communicating to consumers that sugar alcohols may still be present.

Labelling for “Whole‑grain” Claims – Must contain ≥50 % whole‑grain ingre… #

Related terms: cereal, fibre. Explanation: The claim must be substantiated by the ingredient composition. Practical application: Bread packaging states “whole‑grain” after confirming the proportion. Challenge: Sourcing consistent whole‑grain flour.

Labelling for “Zero‑Trans Fat” Claims – Must contain < 0 #

5 g trans fats per 100 g. Related terms: hydrogenated oil, health claim. Explanation: The claim is allowed if the product meets the limit. Practical application: Margarine labels “zero‑trans fat”. Challenge: Reformulating products that previously used partially hydrogenated oils.

Labelling for “Low‑Calorie” Claims – Must contain ≤40 kcal per 100 g (or… #

Related terms: diet, energy reduction. Explanation: The claim must be accurate and not conflict with other nutrition information. Practical application: A yoghurt advertises “low‑calorie” after meeting the threshold. Challenge: Maintaining texture and mouthfeel with reduced calories.

Labelling for “High‑Protein” Claims – Must contain ≥20 % of the energy fr… #

Related terms: muscle building, sports nutrition. Explanation: The claim must be substantiated by analysis. Practical application: A protein bar states “high‑protein (15 g)”. Challenge: Balancing protein levels with other nutrient targets.

Labelling for “Low‑Carbohydrate” Claims – Must contain ≤5 g of carbohydra… #

Related terms: Keto, net carbs. Explanation: The claim must be accurate and supported by laboratory data. Practical application: A snack pack advertises “low‑carb”. Challenge: Accounting for fibre and sugar alcohols in carbohydrate calculations.

Labelling for “Gluten‑Free” – Certification Schemes – Organisations that… #

Related terms: Coeliac UK, Gluten-Free Certification Authority (GFCA). Explanation: Products may display the certifier’s logo to provide assurance. Practical application: A pasta brand uses the GFCA logo after successful audit. Challenge: Maintaining segregation throughout the supply chain.

Labelling for “Organic” – Dual Labelling (EU & UK) – Requirement to displ… #

Related terms: UK organic logo, EU organic logo. Explanation: Products sold in the UK may need to carry the UK organic logo, while those exported to the EU must display the EU logo. Practical application: A fruit exporter prints both logos on the same pack. Challenge: Managing label variations for different markets.

Labelling for “Sustainability” Claims – Must be substantiated and not mis… #

Related terms: carbon neutral, recyclable. Explanation: The UK Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) monitors environmental claims for compliance. Practical application: A brand uses “100 % recyclable packaging” after confirming recycling rates. Challenge: Providing evidence for each claim and updating as recycling infrastructure evolves.

Labelling for “Best‑Before” vs “Use‑By” – Distinction between quality and… #

Related terms: shelf‑life, date marking. Explanation: “Best‑before” relates to quality; “use‑by” is mandatory for highly perishable foods (e.g., fresh meat). Practical application: A ready‑to‑eat salad includes a “use‑by” date. Challenge: Educating consumers on the meaning of each date type.

Labelling for “Nutrient Reference Intakes” (NRIs) – Basis for nutrition t… #

Related terms: RI, Reference Intake (RI). Explanation: The nutrition table must present values per 100 g and per portion, expressed as a percentage of the RI. Practical application: A cereal label shows “Iron 2 mg (12 % RI)”. Challenge: Updating tables when RI values are revised.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – Fat – Must meet defined limits… #

g., “low‑fat” ≤3 g/100 g). Related terms: nutrition claim, reference intake. Explanation: The claim must be consistent with the nutrition table. Practical application: A cheese spreads advertises “low‑fat” after analysis. Challenge: Reformulating to achieve low‑fat while preserving taste.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – Sugar – Must meet defined limit… #

g., “no added sugar”). Related terms: sweetener, intrinsic sugar. Explanation: The claim must not be misleading about total sugar content. Practical application: A beverage labels “no added sugar” but still lists natural fruit juice sugars. Challenge: Avoiding consumer confusion.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – Sodium – Must meet defined limi… #

g., “low‑salt” ≤0.3 g/100 g). Related terms: salt, sodium chloride. Explanation: Must be supported by analytical data. Practical application: A soup advertises “low‑salt” after reformulation. Challenge: Maintaining flavour profile.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – Fibre – Must provide at least 1… #

Related terms: dietary fibre, health claim. Explanation: Must be accompanied by the fibre amount. Practical application: A cereal box states “source of fibre (4 g)”. Challenge: Accurate fibre analysis.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – Vitamin C – Must contain at lea… #

Related terms: ascorbic acid, fortification. Explanation: Must be declared in the nutrition table. Practical application: A fruit drink advertises “source of vitamin C (30 mg)”. Challenge: Stability of vitamin C during processing.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – Calcium – Must contain at least… #

Related terms: bone health, fortification. Explanation: Must be supported by analysis. Practical application: A fortified plant‑based milk states “source of calcium (120 mg)”. Challenge: Ensuring bioavailability.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – Iron – Must contain at least 15… #

Related terms: heme iron, non‑heme iron. Explanation: Must be declared in the nutrition table. Practical application: A breakfast cereal advertises “source of iron (4 mg)”. Challenge: Avoiding iron overload concerns for certain populations.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – Protein – Must contain at least… #

Related terms: muscle building, sports nutrition. Explanation: Must be consistent with the nutrition table. Practical application: A protein bar states “high in protein (12 g)”. Challenge: Balancing protein with other macronutrients.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – Energy – Must meet defined thre… #

Related terms: calorie, diet. Explanation: Must be reflected in the nutrition table. Practical application: A diet yoghurt advertises “low‑energy”. Challenge: Maintaining satiety.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – Fat – “Reduced‑Fat” – Must show… #

Related terms: reference product, reduction claim. Explanation: The reference product must be identified. Practical application: A cheese spread states “reduced‑fat compared to original”. Challenge: Selecting a comparable reference.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – “No Added Salt” – Must contain… #

Related terms: salt‑free, sodium content. Explanation: The claim must be truthful and not misleading. Practical application: A canned vegetable advertises “no added salt”. Challenge: Verifying that processing does not introduce hidden salt.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – “Low‑Glycaemic Index” – Not cur… #

Related terms: GI, health claim regulation. Explanation: Requires EFSA approval before use. Practical application: A bread manufacturer must avoid the claim unless authorised. Challenge: Awaiting regulatory approval.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – “Reduced‑Sodium” – Must show a… #

Related terms: salt reduction, reference product. Explanation: The reference product must be identified. Practical application: A snack advertises “reduced‑sodium compared to original”. Challenge: Documenting the reduction.

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – “Sugar‑Reduced” – Must show a ≥ #

Labelling for “Nutrient Content Claims” – “Sugar‑Reduced” – Must show a ≥