Food packaging and labelling in the UK play a vital role in protecting consumer health, supporting informed choices, and ensuring compliance with food safety laws.
Whether buying a ready meal or a tin of soup, British shoppers rely on packaging labels to guide them through dietary preferences, allergies, and shelf life.
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Behind each label lies a complex framework of legal requirements, best practices, and industry standards designed to maintain trust and transparency.
Clear and accurate labelling isn’t just a matter of good business—it’s a legal obligation. From the name of the food and ingredients list to allergen declarations and durability dates, packaging must follow strict guidelines set by UK law.
With consumer awareness on the rise and food fraud remaining a global concern, proper labelling continues to underpin the integrity of the UK’s food system.
Understanding legal requirements for food labelling
Every food business operating in the UK must adhere to specific food labelling rules that are enforced by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and local authorities.
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By GlobalDataThe key legislation includes the Food Information Regulations 2014, which sets out what information must appear on food labels.
This applies to both prepacked and non-prepacked foods sold directly to consumers or via catering establishments.
Prepacked food must include:
- The name of the food
- A full list of ingredients in descending order by weight
- Allergen information highlighted within the ingredients list
- A use-by or best-before date
- Any special storage conditions or usage instructions
- The name and address of the food business responsible for the product
- The country of origin, if its omission could mislead
- A quantitative indication of key ingredients (QUID)
Allergen labelling has become particularly crucial, especially following high-profile cases of mislabelled products leading to consumer harm. Fourteen allergens must be clearly identified, including nuts, milk, gluten, and soy.
This rule applies not only to prepacked foods but also to food sold loose or prepared on the premises.
New developments such as ‘Natasha’s Law’, which came into effect in October 2021, require full ingredient and allergen labelling on prepacked food for direct sale (PPDS).
This was introduced after the tragic death of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse and has since strengthened food safety in retail and hospitality settings.
The role of packaging in food safety and sustainability
Beyond the label itself, the physical packaging used for food plays an essential role in preserving product quality, extending shelf life, and protecting food from contamination.
Packaging must be food-safe and meet the requirements of the UK’s retained EU law, namely Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004, which ensures that materials used in contact with food do not pose a risk to human health or alter the food’s composition.
Manufacturers must ensure that food packaging materials are suitable for their intended use. For example, plastic containers used for hot foods must withstand high temperatures without releasing harmful substances.
Migration testing, which checks the transfer of chemicals from packaging into food, is a key part of compliance.
The environmental impact of packaging is also under increasing scrutiny. Businesses are being urged to reduce single-use plastics and invest in recyclable or biodegradable alternatives.
The UK government’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme, set to come into effect in phases from 2025, will require producers to cover the full cost of collecting and recycling packaging waste.
This move aims to drive innovation in sustainable food packaging while shifting the financial burden away from local councils.
For brands, there’s a balancing act between maintaining food safety and minimising environmental impact. Consumers expect packaging to be functional, safe, and sustainable—all while delivering accurate and clear labelling.
Best practices for food labelling and consumer communication
While meeting legal requirements is non-negotiable, many businesses go beyond the basics to improve clarity and build consumer trust. Clear design, readable fonts, and user-friendly language help make food labels more accessible.
This is especially important for those with dietary restrictions, low literacy, or visual impairments.
Voluntary front-of-pack labelling, such as traffic light nutrition schemes, can further support healthy choices. Although not mandatory, these labels offer a quick snapshot of fat, sugar, and salt content.
Many UK retailers and manufacturers use this system to promote transparency and meet consumer demand for healthier food options.
QR codes and smart labelling are also emerging tools that provide consumers with digital access to extended product information, including sourcing, sustainability, and cooking tips. This approach is particularly valuable when physical space on packaging is limited.
Food businesses should also keep records of their labelling processes and materials, as part of traceability and recall procedures. Mislabelled food can lead to costly recalls, reputational damage, and even criminal prosecution. Regular audits, staff training, and clear supply chain communication are essential to avoiding errors.
Consistency matters across all platforms. The information on packaging must match what’s shown online, in menus, and in marketing materials.
Discrepancies not only confuse consumers but may also be treated as misleading advertising under trading standards law.
The bottom line
Food packaging and labelling in the UK are far more than a regulatory box-ticking exercise. They form the backbone of consumer confidence in the nation’s food supply.
From allergy awareness to shelf-life guidance, the information on a pack informs daily choices and protects public health.
For food businesses, staying informed of labelling laws, packaging standards, and emerging trends is essential—not only to meet legal obligations but to uphold trust, safety, and sustainability in an evolving food landscape.
