Category: Product labeling

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulatory bodies, ingredients on a product label are not listed randomly. In which order or sequence are the ingredients on the label listed? The answer is typically in descending order by weight, providing a clear indication of a product's primary components and helping consumers make smarter purchasing decisions.

According to The Vegan Society, the internationally recognized Vegan Trademark was first introduced in 1990 to provide clarity for consumers. For ethical shoppers, knowing the distinction between 'vegan' and 'cruelty-free' is essential, as the presence of a vegan logo does not automatically mean a product is cruelty-free.

Across the UK, landmark legislation known as Natasha's Law requires all pre-packed foods for direct sale to display a full ingredients list with allergens clearly highlighted. Such regulations underscore a critical question for both consumers and producers worldwide: are allergen ingredients to be listed on the packaging by law? The answer is a resounding 'yes' in many countries, though the specifics vary significantly.

Over 80% of foods rated by the Environmental Working Group contain 'natural flavors,' but many consumers are confused about their origin. This common food additive is derived from natural sources, but the label itself does not guarantee that natural flavors are non-GMO.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), ingredients on a food label are listed in descending order of predominance by weight. This standard principle also applies to cosmetics, which helps consumers determine in what order do manufacturers list their ingredients and make informed choices about the products they buy.

The global market for 'free-from' products has seen significant growth, driven by consumer demand for transparency and specific dietary needs. But what is free-from claims, and how do they truly impact product safety and consumer perception? This guide delves into the regulations and standards that govern these increasingly common labels.

While the number of products labeled 'gluten-free' has exploded in recent years, this specific claim does not automatically extend to other dietary needs. This crucial distinction addresses the question: Does gluten free mean dye free? The answer is a definitive no, and understanding why is essential for managing a restrictive diet.

By definition, salt is an inorganic mineral, not a product of agriculture, which means it cannot be certified as 'organic' in the same way as fruits or vegetables. The common use of the term "organic salt" is therefore a marketing tactic, usually signaling that the product is free of synthetic additives, not that it has passed organic certification.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), "natural flavor" is derived from a natural source, which can include fruit. However, this broad definition often misleads consumers, who may assume products contain significant amounts of real fruit when they do not. The reality is far more complex, involving extensive processing that distances the final flavor from its original source.

According to research, a significant percentage of food waste is caused by consumer confusion over date labels, with many people misinterpreting manufacturing dates as expiration dates. Deciphering the 'P' on a product can clarify its freshness and help prevent unnecessary discards.