Level 5 · Part 3
Labels and information
A clear, honest label builds trust. The exact rules depend on your country.
The label is how your product speaks to the buyer. It should be clear, honest and easy to read. Many countries also have rules about what must appear on a food label. These differ and change, so check them with the food authority before you print.
| Information | Why it is there |
|---|---|
| Name of the product | So the buyer knows what it is |
| Ingredients | So the buyer knows what is inside, including anything that may cause reactions |
| Amount | So the buyer can compare and you can sell fairly |
| Name and contact of the maker | So a buyer can reach you and you take responsibility |
| Batch code and a date | So you can trace a batch and the buyer knows how long to keep it |
| How to store and use it | So the product stays safe and tastes right |
Honest wording
- Say only what is true and what you can show. Do not claim qualities you have not checked.
- Do not say that a food cures, prevents or treats a disease.
- Use the language or languages your buyers read.
- Keep the text large and clear enough to read in poor light.
Rules differ
Some shops, supermarkets and export buyers have extra requirements, such as barcodes or specific wording. Ask each buyer and the food authority in your country what they need.
Exercise 5.3 · Draft a label
- Draw a label for your product with each item in the table above.
- Write the exact words, then read them as a buyer who has never seen your product.
- Write where you will ask to check it against your country's rules before you print.