Food and beverage labelling has stricter hygiene and automation requirements than most other industries. In the food and beverage business, production typically operates around the clock; while precision and performance are important, the major goal is to automate production operations and avoid disruptions to the maximum extent possible through the use of labelling machines.
You’ll need application equipment that’s perfectly tailored to the job if you want to use special labels for resealing a package, seal and tear labels, labels with pull tabs, labels for marketing campaigns, complex booklet labels with consumer information, or high-quality transparent labels. Brand-name commodities necessitate the utmost level of precision in such operations. Even very basic labels with variable data can be challenging to apply if the labelling takes place under adverse settings. This can include damp and cold surfaces, warm containers, or even frozen products in the food and beverage business.
Food labelling is governed by tight regulations: for many items, the label or package must include information about the ingredients and nutritional values. Labelling standards varies depending on the type of food: The proper label must be chosen based on the packaging and contents to ensure that it can be securely affixed to the packaging and remains fastened.
For example, all foodstuffs should carry the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), which, along with the barcode, is an internationally unique product identification that allows you to not only identify items but also register them in checkout and stock management systems.
Food and beverage labels are used for a variety of reasons. For example, they offer:
- Information,
- Sales support,
- Proof of freshness,
- The ability to reseal packaging
- Traceability, and more
The range of packages used is also extremely diverse. It includes, for example:
- Round bottles,
- Pillow bags,
- Plastic jars,
- Folding boxes,
- Clamshell packaging,
- Aluminium-cardboard composite containers, and more
Since 2016, food manufacturers have been required by law to display nutritional information on the back of all pre-packaged foods. Nutritional information can help consumers live healthier, longer lives in addition to ensuring you meet your legal obligations.
Customers are more interested in nutritional information than ever before, especially as the number of food-related ailments and health problems rises. As a result, many consumers choose more nutritious options and should be informed about the nutrition and nutritional information of the foods they buy.
The EU Food Information for Consumers Regulation (EU FIC) took effect on December 13, 2014, and it affects how allergen information appears on labels and food that is prepackaged, sold loose, or supplied when eating out of the home. It can be difficult to decipher laws and create proper label designs.
Any components that may cause allergic reactions in customers must be clearly labelled. To comply with the regulations and requirements, this can be accomplished in a variety of ways, the most common of which is to list the ingredients in bold, italics, or underlined.
All allergenic ingredient information must be centralised in one location, making it simple for consumers to identify these substances. This is intended to clear up any customer uncertainty and assist them in making an informed decision about whether the product is suitable for their dietary needs.
