What Must a Food Label List

Food labels make it easier for consumers to understand exactly what they are eating. Food labels list information that you'll probably never need, such as the company's address. But labels also list critical information for your health, such as total fat content and whether the product may have come into contact with food allergens. To be a smart consumer, always check food labels before buying a product, especially if you have food allergies or are on a restricted diet.

Identification

• All packaged food items must list the name of the product, as well as the name and address of the company that manufactures it. The company must also print the net weight of the product.

Safe Handling

• For meat products, companies are required to provide safe handling instructions.

Ingredients

• Companies are required to print a list of ingredients.

Allergens

• The food label must list any possible allergens that the food contains or may have come into contact with. Common food allergens include nuts, milk, eggs and shellfish.

Nutrition

• In addition to other identifying information, companies must list nutrition facts on packaged food items. Nutrition facts include calories, cholesterol, fat, trans fat, fiber, sugar, protein and vitamin content.