Nutrition Facts Label Requirements: What Every Buyer Needs

Introduction to Nutrition Facts Label Requirements

The Nutrition Facts label, introduced by the FDA in 1990 and significantly updated in 2016 to align with dietary guidelines, is a critical tool for helping consumers make informed food choices from food manufacturers, as outlined in a food labeling guide. With a clearer layout and updated nutrient information, it highlights key details like calories, serving sizes, and added sugars—empowering healthier decisions at a glance.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Nutrition Facts label requirements—from FDA food labeling formatting rules to what must be included on every label. We’ll also cover the best printing solutions for your business, including thermal printers for clean, black-and-white labels and color label printers for brands that want to include logos and full-color elements without sacrificing compliance.

What Needs To Be Listed on a Nutrition Facts Label?

To meet FDA requirements and build consumer trust, your Nutrition Facts label must include specific details in a clear, standardized format. These elements not only ensure compliance but also help customers make informed dietary choices. Below, we’ll walk through each required section of the label and what it must include.

1. Serving Size

Serving size is the foundation of the Nutrition Facts label. It determines the basis for all the nutritional values listed.

• Must reflect what people typically consume in one sitting—not a recommended amount

• Displayed in both common household units (e.g., cups, pieces) and metric units (e.g., grams)

• If a package contains more than one serving but could reasonably be eaten in one sitting, a dual-column format may be required

2. Calories

Calories are emphasized on the label to help consumers quickly understand the energy content per serving.

• Listed in bold, prominent type

• Based on the stated serving size

• Does not include calories from fat (this was removed in the 2016 update)

3. Nutrients to Limit

This section highlights nutrients that, in excess, are associated with health risks such as heart disease and high blood pressure.

• Total Fat – includes saturated and trans fats

• Saturated Fat – listed separately due to its link to cardiovascular risk

• Trans Fat – must be declared even if the amount is zero

• Cholesterol – linked to heart health

• Sodium – excessive intake is associated with hypertension

4. Nutrients to Get Enough Of

These nutrients support overall health and are often under-consumed in the average diet.

• Dietary Fiber – important for digestive health

• Total Sugars and Added Sugars – listed separately to highlight added sweeteners

• Protein – essential for growth and repair

• Vitamin D, Calcium, Iron, Potassium – required due to their public health significance

5. Percent Daily Value (%DV)

The %DV helps consumers understand how much an amount of the nutrient in one serving contributes to their total daily diet.

• Based on a 2,000-calorie-per-day reference diet

• 5% DV or less is considered low; 20% DV or more is considered high

• Helps compare products quickly and make better nutrition choices

6. Footnote

The footnote provides context for %DV and is found at the bottom of the label.

• Explains that %DV is based on a 2,000-calorie diet

• May also include information for 2,500-calorie diets, depending on label size and format

Key Packaging Areas

To meet FDA labeling requirements, your product packaging must clearly display specific information in designated areas. The two main sections to focus on are the Principal Display Panel (PDP) and the Information Panel. Each has distinct requirements for what must be included and where it should appear.

PDP (Principal Display Panel)

The PDP is the part of the package most likely to be seen by the consumer at the time of purchase—typically the front-facing side on a shelf.

• Must include the statement of identity (what the product is)

• Must display the net quantity of contents (amount of product in the package, in both U.S. and metric units)

• Text must be prominent, easily legible, and in a size that is proportionate to the package

• Branding elements like logos and images can be included, but they must not obscure required information

Information Panel

The Information Panel is usually located immediately to the right of the PDP, if the package is facing forward.

• Must include the Nutrition Facts label

• Must display the ingredient list and allergen declarations

• Must include the name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor

• All text must be in a size that is easy to read (minimum 1/16 inch height for most packages)

• No intervening text or images may separate required elements

Understanding these zones is key to ensuring your packaging is both FDA-compliant and consumer-friendly. Let me know if you'd like a layout diagram or checklist to go with this.

What Must Appear — and Where

FDA-compliant food labels aren’t just about what you say—they’re about where and how you say it under the federal food guidelines and the code of federal regulations. Placement matters, and failing to follow these specific requirements can result in compliance issues or consumer confusion. Below is a breakdown of the key elements that must appear on your packaging—and where they should go.

1. Statement of Identity

The name of the food product—what it actually is.

• Must appear prominently on the Principal Display Panel (PDP)

• Should be in bold, easily readable type

• Must use the common or usual name (e.g., "Granola Bar," "Beef Jerky")

• Can include a fanciful or brand name, but not as a substitute

2. Net Quantity of Contents

This denotes how much product is in the package.

• Also required on the PDP, generally in the bottom 30%

• Must show both U.S. customary and metric units (e.g., 16 oz [454 g])

• Text must be clearly legible and sized in proportion to the packaging

3. Nutrition Facts Label

This details nutritional information in a standardized format.

• Must appear on the Information Panel, typically to the right of the PDP

• Must follow FDA design specifications for layout, font, and order of nutrients

• Cannot be interrupted or surrounded by marketing graphics

• Required on most packaged foods, unless exempt under specific conditions

4. Ingredient Statement

A complete list of ingredients used to make the product.

• Must appear on the Information Panel, immediately below the Nutrition Facts label

• Ingredients must be listed by weight, in descending order

• Must use common or usual names (e.g., “sugar” instead of “sucrose”)

• Any sub-ingredients must be listed in parentheses

5. Allergen Declaration

Identifies any of the eight major food allergens present in the product.

• Required under the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA)

• Must appear either in the ingredients list (e.g., “wheat flour”) or as a “Contains” statement immediately below it (e.g., “Contains: Wheat, Soy”)

• Applies to milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans

6. Name and Address of the Manufacturer, Packer, or Distributor

This ensures traceability and accountability.

• Must be included on the Information Panel

• If the business listed is not the actual manufacturer, it must be clearly indicated (e.g., “Distributed by” or “Packed for”)

• A physical address is required unless it’s listed in a current business directory—then a city, state, and ZIP code may suffice

Add-Ons That Elevate Packaging

Beyond the mandatory FDA labeling elements, certain optional features can enhance your product’s packaging—boosting shelf appeal, improving functionality, and supporting retail readiness. These additions aren't required, but they can add significant value when done right.

1. Nutrient Content Claims

These are voluntary statements that highlight the nutritional value of a product—like “High in Fiber” or “Low Sodium.”

• Must be truthful and comply with FDA definitions (e.g., “Low Fat” must meet specific fat content limits)

• Can appear on the Principal Display Panel or elsewhere on the packaging

• Must not be misleading or imply a health benefit without substantiation

• Claims like “Good Source of Protein” or “Sugar-Free” can influence buying decisions, especially among health-conscious consumers

2. Barcode

A barcode is essential for inventory control, scanning at checkout, and retail compliance.

• Typically placed on the back or bottom of the package, away from required FDA information

• Should be large and clear enough to scan reliably, with quiet zones (blank space) around it

• Use a UPC (Universal Product Code) for retail products or QR codes for linking to digital content (e.g., sourcing info, certifications, or promotions)

• Ensure barcode placement doesn’t interfere with FDA-mandated elements or printer readability

Printing Technologies for Ingredient and Nutrition Labels

Once your label content and design are finalized, selecting the right printing technology is essential to ensure FDA compliance, durability, and professional presentation. Below are two leading printing methods used across the food industry:

1. Thermal Label Printers (Monochrome)

Ideal for producing durable, black-and-white Nutrition Facts and ingredient labels, thermal transfer printers are a go-to solution for businesses prioritizing clarity, compliance, and long-term label integrity.

Recommended options:

• Godex G530 Desktop Thermal Transfer Label Printer
  A compact, reliable printer for small to medium batch labeling. Perfect for brands that need smudge-proof, high-contrast labels in a desktop footprint.

• Godex ZX1200i Industrial Thermal Transfer Label Printer
  Built for high-volume production, this industrial-grade model offers excellent resolution, fast print speeds, and robust media handling for continuous operations.

These printers are especially effective for black-and-white Nutrition Facts panels, ingredient lists, and barcodes where compliance and durability matter most.

2. Color Label Printers (Full-Color + Branding)

If your product packaging includes logos, color accents, or marketing graphics alongside Nutrition Facts and ingredient data, color label printers deliver vibrant, professional-quality labels that meet both branding and compliance needs.

Top choices for color label printing:

• Afinia L502 Color Label Printer
  A compact and dependable option for small to medium runs. It produces vivid labels on various materials with accurate color matching.

• Primera LX4000 Color Label Printer
  A high-speed, high-capacity solution built for brands requiring sharp detail and large batch printing with minimal downtime.

• VIPColor VP550 Color Label Printer
  An industrial-grade model designed for heavy-duty, high-volume applications. Supports waterproof and tear-resistant label stocks for added durability.

These printers allow food brands to elevate packaging with eye-catching design elements while still adhering to FDA labeling requirements.

Best Printers for Nutrition Facts Label Requirements

Choosing the right printer is crucial for producing clear, compliant Nutrition Facts labels that meet FDA standards. Whether you need crisp black-and-white prints or vibrant full-color labels with branding, the right printer ensures accuracy, durability, and efficiency.

Thermal Label Printers for Monochrome Nutrition Labels

For businesses needing efficient, high-quality printing of black-and-white Nutrition Facts labels, thermal label printers are a reliable choice. They use heat to transfer ink onto labels, producing crisp, durable prints that stand up well to handling and storage. Thermal printers are especially popular for monochrome or single-color labels where clarity and cost-effectiveness matter most.

Here are two solid options for printing monochrome Nutrition Facts labels:

Godex ZX1200i 4" Thermal Transfer Barcode Printer

The Godex ZX1200i 4" Thermal Transfer Barcode Printer, priced around USD $1,695.00, delivers reliable, high-quality printing designed to meet the demands of medium to high-volume labeling needs. Built for speed and durability, it ensures sharp, clear labels across a range of materials—perfect for fast-paced production environments.

• Supports high-resolution printing for sharp, easy-to-read nutrition information

• Ideal for medium to high-volume label runs with consistent quality

• Handles a variety of label materials including paper and synthetic stocks

• Known for its durability and fast print speeds, making it suitable for busy production lines

Pros

• High-resolution (203 dpi): Crisp, clear labels—great for nutrition info and fine text.

• Fast & durable: Handles high-volume printing with speed and reliability.

• Versatile media support: Works with paper and synthetic label stocks.

• Ideal for production lines: Built for demanding, continuous use.

Cons

• Higher price point (~$1,695): May be overkill for low-volume needs.

• Large footprint: Requires space in smaller setups.

• Over-spec’d for simple labels: Not cost-effective for basic, occasional printing.

Godex G530 4" Thermal Transfer Label Printer (Model 011-G53E11-004)

The Godex G530 4" Thermal Transfer Label Printer, priced around USD $615.00, offers a compact and efficient solution for small to medium label printing tasks. It delivers clear, durable labels while seamlessly integrating with your current systems—ideal for businesses focused on compliant Nutrition Facts labeling without the need for color.

• Compact yet powerful printer designed for small to medium label printing needs

• Produces clear, smudge-proof labels that maintain legibility over time

• Easy to integrate with existing labeling systems and software

• Cost-effective for businesses looking to print compliant Nutrition Facts labels without color

Pros

• High-resolution (300 dpi): Clear, professional labels suitable for barcodes and product info.

• Cost-effective: Affordable option for small to mid-volume labeling needs.

• Compact design: Fits easily into tight workspaces.

• Dual printing modes: Supports both direct thermal and thermal transfer printing.

Cons

• Not for high-volume runs: May struggle in heavy production environments.

• Lower speed vs. industrial models: Slower output than higher-end printers.

• Limited media capacity: More frequent roll changes during large jobs.

Color Label Printers for Nutrition Labels with Logos and Branding

When your packaging calls for vibrant, full-color Nutrition Facts labels that include logos, branding, or other design elements, color label printers are the way to go. These printers deliver sharp, eye-catching labels that help your product stand out on the shelf while maintaining all regulatory requirements.

Here are three excellent color label printers designed for printing high-quality nutrition labels with color:

Afinia L502

The Afinia L502, priced around USD $2,795.00, is a compact and dependable color label printer designed for small to medium production runs. It delivers vibrant, durable labels with precise color accuracy, supporting various materials to meet diverse labeling needs.

• Compact, reliable color label printer ideal for small to medium production runs

• Produces vivid, durable prints with excellent color accuracy

• Supports a wide range of label materials including matte, gloss, and synthetic

• Easy to use with intuitive software for quick design and printing

Pros

• Pigment & dye ink options: Flexible for durable or vibrant color labels.

• High-quality color printing (up to 4800 dpi): Ideal for premium product labels.

• Durable output: Great for chemical, food, or outdoor labeling with pigment ink.

• BS5609-certified (with pigment): Suitable for GHS-compliant labels.

Cons

• Slower print speed: Not ideal for high-volume, fast-paced production.

• Higher ink costs: Especially with full-color or dye-based printing.

• More maintenance: Color printers typically require more upkeep than thermal models.

Primera LX4000

The Primera LX4000, priced around USD $3,499.00, is a high-speed color label printer designed for professional-quality labels on demand. It handles large label rolls efficiently and delivers vibrant, sharp prints, making it ideal for medium to high-volume branding and production needs.

• High-speed color label printer capable of producing professional-grade labels on demand

• Supports large label rolls for efficient, uninterrupted printing

• Known for vibrant colors and sharp image quality, perfect for detailed logos and branding

• Robust build suited for medium to high-volume operations

Pros

• High-resolution color (up to 1200 dpi): Produces sharp, vibrant labels.

• Large ink tanks (CMY): Lower cost per label for medium to high-volume color printing.

• Pigment-based inks: Durable and water-resistant—great for food, beverage, and chemical labeling.

• Built-in cutter: Streamlines finishing for custom label lengths.

Cons

• Higher upfront cost: Premium features come with a bigger price tag.

• Slower than thermal printers: Not ideal for speed-critical production lines.

• Bulkier design: Requires more space compared to compact units.

VIPColor VP550

The VIPColor VP550, priced around USD $4,495.00, is an industrial-grade color label printer built for heavy-duty applications. It delivers superior resolution and consistent color, supporting a wide range of label materials to meet both compliance standards and striking visual branding needs.

• Industrial-grade color label printer designed for heavy-duty use

• Offers superior print resolution and color consistency for premium packaging

• Handles a variety of label sizes and materials, including waterproof and tear-resistant stocks

• Ideal for brands that require both compliance and high-impact visual appeal

Pros

• Fast print speeds (up to 8 ips) for medium-volume production

• High-resolution output (up to 1600 x 1600 dpi) for detailed labels

• Water-resistant dye inks ideal for food, beverage, and chemical labels

• Large 200ml ink tanks reduce running costs

• Built-in cutter and wide media support (2"–8.5")

Cons

• Higher upfront cost (around $4,495)

• Dye inks lack long-term UV durability

• Requires regular maintenance

• No Wi-Fi connectivity (USB/Ethernet only)

Best Before, Expiration, or Sell-By Date

Including a clear date on your packaging helps consumers know how long your product remains fresh and safe to use. Depending on the product type and regulations, this date may be labeled as “Best Before,” “Expiration,” or “Sell-By,” and it should be easy to find and read on the package. Proper date labeling not only builds trust but also supports inventory management and reduces food waste.

OmegaBrand Label Printers for Nutrition Facts Compliance

OmegaBrand provides reliable, high-quality label printers designed specifically to meet Nutrition Facts label requirements. Their wide range of printing solutions caters to both monochrome and full-color needs, allowing businesses of all sizes to produce compliant, clear, and professional nutrition labels.

With a strong focus on durability and precision, OmegaBrand’s equipment ensures that every label meets FDA standards while enhancing your product’s presentation. Beyond printers, they also offer expert support and guidance, helping you navigate regulatory requirements and streamline your labeling process from start to finish.

Whether you’re printing small batches or large volumes, Omega Brand makes it easier to deliver accurate, attractive Nutrition Facts labels that build consumer trust and comply with legal standards. Book a free call now.

Conclusion

Nutrition Facts labels are essential for helping consumers make informed food choices and maintain a healthy diet, including important nutrients like vitamin C and sugar alcohols. They provide clear details on nutrient content, serving sizes, and allergens—key information that supports health goals and dietary needs. As interest in food transparency grows, accurate labeling becomes crucial for manufacturers to meet regulations and build trust. Understanding these labels matters for everyone, empowering smarter eating and healthier living.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Most Common Mistakes on Nutrition Labels?

Common mistakes on nutrition labels include incorrect serving sizes, misleading health claims, and failing to list allergens. Additionally, many product label mistakes include neglecting to provide complete ingredient lists or using vague terms like "natural," which can mislead consumers about the product's true nutritional value.

What to Do If a Product’s Nutrition Facts Label Is Incorrect?

If you find that a product's nutrition facts label is incorrect, report it to the manufacturer and consider notifying the FDA. Additionally, refrain from consuming the product until confirmed safe. Keep records of your findings for future reference and potential claims.

How Often Are Nutrition Label Laws Updated?

Nutrition label laws are updated as needed based on scientific research, public health concerns, and food safety technological advancements, including the regulations surrounding infant formula. In the United States, the FDA revamped the Nutrition Facts label in 2016, marking its first significant update in over two decades, particularly in regard to drug administration requirements.

Are There Exemptions to Mandatory Nutrition Labeling?

Yes, some exemptions exist to mandatory nutrition labeling. For instance, raw fruits, vegetables, and fish are generally exempted. Additionally, products from small businesses and low-volume food products that contain insignificant amounts of all required nutrients may also be exempt, provided they do not make nutrient claims and meet other FDA criteria. Furthermore, low volume food products are defined as those sold by businesses employing fewer than 100 full-time equivalent employees and selling fewer than 100,000 units of the product per year.