Is Food Labelling Too Complicated?

The information that we find on food packaging is highly important. These labels should offer information about the nutrition and allergens as well as storage information and use-by dates. Of course, we work with companies who want to add the kosher certification to their food packaging. With all these different elements that must be displayed on these packages, some people are starting to ask: is food labelling becoming too complicated?

There are certain legal requirements for food packaging, so it is important that food manufacturers know what is expected of them and what they must do in order to stay compliant. However, there is one particular part of food labelling that some are calling out as confusing and even misleading. Many consumers are unsure of the distinction between ‘sell by’, ‘use by’, ‘display until’, and ‘best before’. While many people are likely to interpret them all as ‘use by’, this is incorrect, and some companies are making the connection between complicated food labelling and the problem of food waste.

These companies are calling for labels to be simplified, using more consistent language and for there to be better consumer education so labels can be better understood.

Ultimately, food manufacturers have a responsibility to their consumers. They must provide the relevant information that allows customers to make an informed decision about the food they buy. Not only can this help to ensure that people know more about the nutritional values of a product, it can also help them to avoid foods that they may be unable to eat, whether for religious, ethical or lifestyle reasons, or even perhaps due to an allergy.

The information on food and beverage packaging is expected to be ‘clear and easy to read, permanent, easy to understand, easily visible and not misleading.’ It is essential that certain requirements are met, according to the law of the country in question, so perhaps there are changes that need to be made to the way we present information on our food packaging.

While there may be an abundance of information to process on the packaging of many food products, we believe that displaying your kosher certification symbol is important and can be hugely beneficial. While terms such as ‘sell by’, ‘use by’, ‘display until’, and ‘best before’ may be confusing and unclear, the kosher certification logo is not. When a consumer sees that logo on food packaging, they can be certain that the food within has met the rigorous standards and requirements of kosher food.

Getting kosher certified is a simple process with KLBD Kosher, and you can start today. You can fill out a short form with information about your food products and manufacturing process, and we will do the rest. If you would like to find out more about how to get your kosher certification or you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with a member of our team today. You can call us on +44 (0) 20 8343 6255 or email info@klbdkosher.org and we will be more than happy to advise you further.