A Complete Guide to U.S. Product Labeling Requirements

Whether you’re launching a new product or expanding nationwide, understanding product labeling requirements is crucial. From food and beverages to cosmetics and chemicals, labels serve not only as a branding tool but also as a legal necessity that informs consumers and shields your business from regulatory issues.

In this guide, we’ll explore why product labeling requirements matter, what information must be included, how they vary across industries, and best practices to keep your brand compliant and competitive while ensuring consumer safety.

The Importance of Product Labeling

Product labeling serves three key functions: ensuring regulatory compliance, protecting consumers, and reinforcing your brand identity. Done right, it’s both a legal requirement and a strategic asset.

A recent NSF survey released in May 2025 found that 83% of U.S. consumers read food labels before making a purchase, and 64% say they pay more attention to labels now than they did five years ago. 

What are shoppers looking for? First and foremost: the expiration date (86%), followed closely by the ingredients list (79%), health claims (78%), allergen warnings (77%), and country of origin (77%). It’s clear that labels are one of the most powerful tools brands have to earn trust and influence buying decisions.

Consumer Protection

Clear and honest labels help consumers make safe and informed choices. Required information like allergens, warnings, and instructions can prevent health hazards and build brand loyalty through transparency.

For example, under the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA), the Food and Drug Administration requires that all packaged food products must clearly list major allergens like milk, eggs, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans.

Regulatory Compliance

Federal agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) have strict product labeling requirements for various industries. Failing to meet these standards can result in product recalls, fines, and even bans from selling in certain markets. It’s essential to stay informed when it comes to packaging regulations to avoid harsh penalties and keep consumers safe.

Brand Image and Reputation

Your label is often your first impression. Poorly designed or misleading labels can break trust and damage your reputation. On the other hand, well-crafted, compliant labels establish trust and reinforce professionalism, company values, and product quality.

Key Elements of a Product Label

When considering product labeling requirements, certain key elements must always be included for compliance and consumer protection. While requirements vary by product type, most U.S. product labels should include the following elements:

Product Name

The label must clearly state the product’s standardized or commonly recognized name. It should accurately describe what the product is or does and must not mislead consumers in any way.

List of Ingredients

Ingredients need to be listed in descending order by weight. For food items, all major allergens, such as milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans, must be clearly identified, either within the ingredients list itself or through a separate “Contains” statement.

Net Quantity

The label must display the net quantity of contents in both U.S. customary and metric units. For example, “16 oz (454 g).” The FTC and FDA require this information to appear prominently on the front label panel.

Manufacturer’s Details

The label also needs to include the name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor. If the product wasn’t made by the named entity, it must clearly state “Manufactured for…” or “Distributed by…” to avoid misleading consumers.

Country of Origin

For imported products, U.S. Customs and Border Protection requires that labels disclose the country of origin, for example, “Made in Italy.” This helps inform consumers and ensures compliance with trade regulations.

Expiry Date or Best Before Date

Products such as food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals often require a “Best Before,” “Use By,” or expiration date to help ensure safety, quality, and efficacy.

Instructions for Use

Products such as medications, cosmetics, or cleaning products must provide clear and precise usage instructions. This ensures that consumers can use the product safely and effectively.

Warnings and Precautions

Products that are hazardous or potentially harmful need to feature appropriate warnings and safety information. For example, chemical products may be required to display hazard pictograms under OSHA’s Globally Harmonized System (GHS) labeling standards.

Including these key elements on a label is essential for consumer safety, informed decision-making, and building trust in your brand.

Sector-Specific Labeling Requirements

While general labeling rules apply across many product categories, several industries in the U.S. must also comply with strict, specialized labeling regulations. Here’s a breakdown of key sector-specific requirements to help ensure your products remain compliant and consumer-friendly.

Food and Beverage

Food labeling requirements include specific regulations for the food and beverage industry. Because these products are directly consumed, labeling must be accurate, transparent, and compliant with strict federal guidelines. 

• Nutrition Facts Panel: The FDA requires packaged foods and beverages to display a standardized Nutrition Facts panel. This panel must clearly show serving size, calorie count, and a breakdown of nutrients such as fats, carbohydrates, protein, and key vitamins and minerals. This transparency helps consumers make informed choices about their diet and health. For more information, the FDA provides additional food labeling resources for the food industry. 
• Organic and Non-GMO Labels: Products labeled as “organic” must meet specific certification standards set by the USDA National Organic Program. Likewise, products claiming to be non-GMO often require verification from organizations like the Non-GMO Project. Misuse of these terms can lead to regulatory action and damage to brand reputation.

Pharmaceuticals

Drug labeling requirements include specific regulations for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industry. Because these products impact health and safety, their labels must meet rigorous FDA standards to ensure accuracy and clarity. Proper labeling helps prevent misuse, supports informed decision-making, and safeguards public health.

• Prescription Drug Labels: Prescription medications must include detailed labeling that lists active and inactive ingredients, proper dosage instructions, storage conditions, warnings, and other critical information. Labels must align with the FDA-approved prescribing information to ensure patient safety. Review the FDA’s Labeling Resources for Human Prescription Drugs for more information. 
• Over-the-Counter (OTC) Drugs: OTC products are required to follow the FDA’s Drug Facts labeling format. This standardized format ensures consumers can easily understand key details such as the product’s purpose, uses, directions for safe use, warnings, and active ingredients.

Cosmetics

Cosmetic labeling requirements on products sold in the U.S. must list all ingredients in descending order of predominance, along with clear instructions for use and any necessary warnings. If a cosmetic product also has a therapeutic purpose, such as sunscreen products, it must comply with OTC drug labeling requirements under FDA regulations. The FDA provides ample resources on regulatory requirements for cosmetic labeling.  

Chemicals

Under OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), chemical labeling requirements for products and hazardous substances mandate specific labeling elements to protect workers and consumers. Per OSHA’s HCS, all hazardous material labels must include the following information:

• Product Identifier: The chemical name or code.
• Supplier Identification: Name, address, and phone number of the responsible party.
• Hazard Pictogram: Standardized hazard symbols to visually communicate risks. 
• Signal Word: Either “Danger” or “Warning.”
• Hazard Statements: Brief statements describing the nature of hazards (e.g., “ Highly flammable liquid and vapor. May cause liver and kidney damage”).
• Precautionary Statements: Instructions on safe handling, storage, and emergency measures.

Staying up to date with evolving regulations ensures that your products remain on the market and trusted by consumers.

Common Mistakes in Product Labeling

Labeling errors can cost companies time, money, and consumer trust. Some of the most common mistakes include:

• Misleading Claims: Overstating benefits or using unapproved health claims can lead to legal action.
• Incomplete Information: Omitting allergens, instructions, or warnings can pose serious safety risks.
• Non-Compliance with Local Laws: Labeling laws vary by state and country, so failing to adapt your labels can limit market access.

Best Practices for Effective Product Labeling

Creating clear, compliant, and engaging product labels is essential for legal compliance, consumer trust, and brand success. Here are some best practices to ensure your product labeling stands out and stays compliant:

Conduct Regular Compliance Audits

Schedule regular packaging audits to stay ahead of evolving packaging laws and regulations and avoid costly recalls or fines. Review your packaging and labeling to ensure compliance with the latest regulations from agencies like the FDA, USDA, FTC, and OSHA. Consistent audits will help identify outdated information, labeling errors, or missing disclosures before your products hit the market. Keep documentation of your audits on hand for regulatory inspections and internal accountability. 

Consult Legal and Regulatory Experts

Labeling laws can be complex and vary by industry and product type. Partner with experienced legal and regulatory professionals who specialize in product labeling requirements. They can guide you through nuances like allergen declarations, health claims, mandatory disclosures, and country-of-origin labeling.

Working with experts reduces the risk of noncompliance and ensures your labels meet FDA, USDA, and FTC standards. The FDA offers Labeling & Nutrition Guidance as a resource for businesses. 

Design Labels with the Consumer in Mind

A product label isn’t just a legal requirement, it’s your first impression on the shelf. Here are a few ways to prioritize user-friendly design:

• Choose readable fonts and appropriate font sizes.
• Maintain a high contrast between text and background for visibility.
• Use a clear layout that guides the consumer’s eye logically through key information.
• Highlight essential details like allergen statements, instructions, or safety warnings.

An effective label strikes a balance between compliance and visual appeal, enhancing consumer confidence and driving purchasing decisions.

Pro Tip: Test your packaging and label designs with real consumers to identify readability or comprehension issues before mass production.

How to Simplify Your Product Labeling

At Paramount Global, we believe labeling should empower your brand, not complicate it. Let our team help you navigate compliance, elevate your shelf presence, and bring your vision to life with innovative solutions tailored to your products. Explore our custom packaging design services for a seamless brand experience from concept to shelf, or discover how our labeling services can streamline your path to market. 

Ready to simplify your labeling strategy? Contact us today and let’s simplify your product labeling together.