Packaging and Labeling Series Kick Off

Packaging and labeling regulations are a vital aspect that U.S. companies must consider when exporting their products. Adhering to these regulations demands attention to detail and financial investment from an exporter. This process can be overwhelming, and to facilitate it, Food Export is curated a series of packaging and labeling content with exclusive insight tailored to specific regions.  

Let’s start with the basics. What do we mean by packaging and labeling regulations? 

Packaging and labeling regulations are a system of rules that dictate how products are packaged and labeled. The goal of these is to protect consumers, ensure accurate information, and ensure fair trade practices. Key aspects include: 

• Mandatory information such as country of origin, net weight, and ingredients. 

• Specific markings like the CE (Conformité Européenne” or “European Conformity”), which are markings that are required in the European Union. 

• Warning labels 

• Imagery 

• Language compliance 

These regulations vary significantly by country and product type. They also evolve regularly, and even drastically, in different markets. Therefore, U.S. suppliers are required to be ready to update their packaging to comply with the importing laws of the countries they are exporting to. This can be a sizable investment for a company, whether they are attempting to enter the market for the first time or to maintain their presence in an established one. 

How can Food Export help U.S. suppliers learn and keep up with these regulations? 

To support U.S. suppliers in understanding and navigating packaging and labeling requirements, Food Export staff consulted with the In-Market Representatives in the regions that have the most claims for packaging and labeling. These include Canada, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Our IMRs will address frequently asked questions such as: 

1. What are some of the challenges that companies face when getting their packaging approved in a specific country or region? 

2. What do packaging and labeling regulators look for in the packaging of imported food products? 

3. Are there any upcoming changes that companies should be aware of? 

4. Where can U.S. companies learn about the packaging and labeling requirements of a specific country or region? 

And remember:

The Branded Program can help cover costs associated with the design and production of the compliant labels including expenses like translation, graphic design, plates, printing, and labor costs.

Stay tuned to gain insight about packaging and labeling in different markets across the world.