Key takeaways
- FDA rules differ for food, supplements, cosmetics and drugs.
- Key panels: principal display panel (PDP) and information panel.
- Food needs identity, net quantity, Nutrition Facts, ingredients, allergens and business details.
- Supplements use a Supplement Facts panel.
- Always check current FDA guidance or a regulatory expert.
Who regulates labels in the US?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates labeling for most packaged foods, dietary supplements, cosmetics, drugs and medical devices. Meat, poultry and some egg products fall under the USDA instead, and alcohol labels are regulated by the TTB. The first step is confirming which agency covers your product.
The principal display panel and information panel
The principal display panel (PDP) is the part of the package most likely to be seen at retail, usually the front. The information panel is the panel immediately to the right of the PDP. FDA rules say which information must appear on each, so plan your box layout around them.
Food labeling requirements
Packaged food labels generally need:
| Element | Where | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Statement of identity | PDP | Common name of the food |
| Net quantity of contents | Bottom third of PDP | US customary and metric units |
| Nutrition Facts panel | Information panel or PDP | Exemptions exist for some small businesses |
| Ingredient list | Information panel | Descending order by weight |
| Major allergens | With ingredients | Milk, egg, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy, sesame |
| Name and place of business | Information panel | Manufacturer, packer or distributor |
Dietary supplement labels
Supplements use a Supplement Facts panel listing serving size, dietary ingredients and amounts per serving. The product must be identified as a dietary supplement, and claims are limited: structure/function claims need the standard FDA disclaimer, and disease claims are not allowed.
Cosmetic labels
Cosmetics need a statement of identity, net contents, an ingredient declaration in descending order of predominance, the name and place of business, and any required warnings. Under the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA), additional requirements such as contact information for adverse event reporting are being phased in.
Type size and legibility
Required information must be clear and conspicuous. Minimum type sizes depend on the size of the PDP; for example, the net quantity statement has minimum heights based on the panel area. Text must contrast with the background and not be hidden by folds or seams.
Common labeling mistakes
Net quantity in the wrong place or units, allergens missing from the label, misleading health claims, Nutrition Facts format errors and text crossing folds or glue flaps. Packaging redesigns often introduce these errors, so proof carefully.
How we help
We do not provide legal advice, but we design packaging layouts with space reserved for every required panel and print exactly from your approved label copy. Send us your compliance copy and we will build the dieline around it.
Health and nutrient content claims
Claims such as low fat, high fibre or good source of vitamin C have defined meanings under FDA rules and can only be used if the product meets the criteria. Health claims that link a food to reducing disease risk are even more tightly controlled. If you plan to make any claim on pack, check it against FDA definitions before printing.
Country of origin and other agencies
Imported products usually need a country-of-origin statement under US Customs rules. Depending on your product, other agencies may also be involved: the FTC for certain marketing claims, the CPSC for children’s products, and state rules for items such as cannabis or alcohol. Keeping a compliance checklist for each product line helps avoid surprises.
Planning packaging around compliance
Start the design process with your compliance copy, not your artwork. Measure the principal display panel to determine minimum type sizes, reserve space on the information panel for nutrition or supplement facts and ingredients, and keep barcodes on flat panels. Then build your branding around those fixed areas. This approach avoids last-minute redesigns when a panel turns out to be too small.
Frequently asked questions
Does the FDA approve labels before sale?
Generally no; companies are responsible for compliance.
Do small businesses need Nutrition Facts?
Some small businesses qualify for exemptions, but many still need them. Check FDA rules.
What are the major food allergens?
Milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans and sesame.
Where must net weight appear?
In the bottom 30 percent of the principal display panel.
Do I need a country of origin label?
Imported products usually do under US Customs rules.
Can I say low fat on my label?
Only if the product meets the FDA definition.