Which of the following does not have to be included on a food label?

December 24, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), while certain elements are non-negotiable for most packaged goods, some information is not required by law to appear on a food label. When asking, 'Which of the following does not have to be included on a food label?', the answer often pertains to optional claims or specific nutrient details not deemed critical for general public health, allowing manufacturers flexibility.

Quick Summary

This article clarifies the difference between mandatory and optional information on food labels, explaining that while the ingredient list and manufacturer details are required, nutrient content claims are often voluntary. It also covers which types of food products are exempt from carrying a full nutritional panel.

Key Points

Nutrient Content Claims: Statements like "low fat" or "high fiber" are optional and not a required component of a standard food label.
Nutritional Panel on Raw Produce: Unprocessed, single-ingredient raw fruits, vegetables, and fish are generally exempt from mandatory nutrition labeling.
Cooking or Serving Instructions: While common, explicit preparation directions are not a mandatory part of a food label unless they are critical for safe use.
Specific Vitamin Listings: Vitamins A and C are no longer required to be listed on the Nutrition Facts panel, though they can be included voluntarily.
Specific Nutrient Breakdown: Information on mono- and polyunsaturated fats, fiber type, and certain other vitamins and minerals are optional unless a specific claim is made.
Product Price: The price of the product does not have to be included on the food label itself, as it varies by retailer.

The question, "Which of the following does not have to be included on a food label?", addresses a common point of confusion for consumers trying to decipher product packaging. While basic components like the product name and net weight are strictly regulated, other details, particularly nutritional claims, are often optional. For instance, a nutrient content claim, such as "high in fiber" or "low fat," is not a mandatory element for standard food labeling. This information is included at the manufacturer's discretion, typically to market the product's health benefits. In contrast, details like the ingredient list and manufacturer's address are almost always required to ensure consumer safety and traceability.

The Core Requirements of a Standard Food Label

Under regulations set by agencies like the FDA, most packaged foods must adhere to a standard format that includes several key pieces of information. This mandatory information ensures transparency and helps consumers make informed choices. These requirements are detailed in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Part 101.

Principal Display Panel Requirements

The principal display panel (PDP) is the front of the package and must include the product's identity (common name) and the net quantity of contents (amount of food).

Information Panel Requirements

The information panel, typically next to the PDP, requires an ingredient list (in descending order by weight, with allergens identified), and the name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor. A Nutrition Facts panel is also mandatory for most packaged foods.

Optional vs. Mandatory Label Information

Distinguishing between required and optional information is key. While Calories, Total Fat, Sodium, Sugars, and Protein are required on the Nutrition Facts panel, listing specific amounts of mono/polyunsaturated fats or certain vitamins like A and C is optional unless a claim is made. Nutrient content claims (e.g., "low fat") and health claims (e.g., "heart healthy") are also optional but must adhere to FDA guidelines if used. Preparation instructions are generally not mandatory unless crucial for safety.

Exemptions from Standard Labeling

Several food categories are exempt from some or all standard labeling, especially the Nutrition Facts panel. This includes raw, single-ingredient foods like fruits, vegetables, and fish sold unprocessed. Foods with insignificant nutrient amounts (coffee, tea, spices) and foods sold in bulk or prepared on-premises are also often exempt. Additionally, small businesses may qualify for exemptions from the full Nutrition Facts panel requirements.

Optional vs. Mandatory Food Label Information


Feature	Mandatory (Generally)	Optional (Generally)
Product Name / Statement of Identity	Yes	No, though brand names can be fanciful.
Net Weight / Contents	Yes	No, though drained weight can be added.
Ingredient List	Yes, for products with two or more ingredients.	No, ingredients must be listed.
Nutrition Facts Panel	Yes, for most packaged foods.	Yes, for raw foods, spices, and small businesses.
Allergen Declaration	Yes, if allergens are present.	No, this is mandatory.
Nutrient Content Claims (e.g., "Low Fat")	No.	Yes, if they comply with FDA rules.
Health Claims (e.g., "Heart Healthy")	No	Yes, if they meet specific criteria.
Preparation Instructions	No, unless vital for safety.	Yes, often included for convenience.
Price of the Product	No.	No, determined by the retailer.

The Final Analysis

While FDA regulations mandate essential information like identity, net quantity, ingredients, and manufacturer details, many elements are optional. Nutrient content claims are a prime example of voluntary additions, though they must be truthful and comply with FDA definitions if used. Raw produce and products from small operations often have exemptions from full nutrition labeling. Mandatory labeling focuses on providing core information for safety and consumer protection, while optional elements serve marketing or convenience purposes.

A Note on Evolving Regulations

Food labeling laws are dynamic, with the FDA updating regulations based on science and public health needs. Recent changes added "Added Sugars" to the Nutrition Facts label and made vitamins A and C optional. Staying informed via the FDA's website is crucial.

Conclusion

In summary, nutrient content claims, cooking instructions, and most nutrition information on raw produce are not required on food labels. The FDA requires essential details like identity, net quantity, ingredients, and manufacturer information for transparency and public health. Optional elements like marketing claims or preparation tips are included at the manufacturer's discretion, provided they are truthful. This balance ensures consumers have necessary information while allowing manufacturers flexibility.

Visit the official FDA website for detailed food labeling requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Optional information includes nutrient content claims like 'low fat' or 'good source of fiber,' health claims like 'may reduce the risk of heart disease,' and the listing of vitamins A and C.

Yes, manufacturers with annual food sales under $10 million may be exempt from the full Nutrition Facts panel requirement, though they must still comply with other labeling regulations.

For packaged foods with more than one ingredient, yes. However, single-ingredient foods like raw produce are exempt from needing an ingredient list.

No, health claims are optional. If a manufacturer chooses to make a health claim, it must be supported by scientific evidence and approved by the FDA.

Nutrition labeling for raw produce is voluntary unless the packaging makes a specific nutritional claim, such as "high in vitamin C".

No, the price is not a required element of a food label, as it is determined by individual retailers and can vary.

The 'low calorie' claim is optional, but if it is included, the product must meet the FDA's specific definition. It is a form of nutrient content claim, which is not required but must be truthful if used.