According to the FDA, there are two ways to label packages and containers for food and drug items.
The first way is to place all required label statements on the front label panel. The front label panel is also called the Principal Display Panel or PDP. The second way is to place certain specified label statements on the PDP and other labeling on the Information Panel. The information panel must be immediately to the right of the PDP so the consumer can see the information panel facing the product.
Place the statement of identity, or name of the food, and the net quantity statement, or amount of product, on the PDP and on the alternate PDP.
The information panel label must contain certain label statements including the name and address of the manufacturer, packer or distributor, the ingredient list, nutrition labeling and any required allergy labeling.
When designing the information panel labeling, use a print or type size that is prominent, conspicuous and easy to read. Use letters that are at least one-sixteenth (1/16) inch in height based on the lower case letter “o”. The letters must not be more than three times as high as they are wide, and the lettering must contrast sufficiently with the background so as to be easy to read. Do not crowd required labeling with artwork or non-required labeling.
Intervening materials are items that are not required by the FDA and these items are not permitted to be placed between the required labeling on the information panel. A UPC Barcode is not considered a part of the FDA required labeling. A UPC Barcode is not regulated by any government agency and is merely a convenience or requirement of retail stores to help convey pricing and manage inventory.
For more information about UPC barcodes and to buy a barcode, contact Nationwide Barcode.
For more information about labeling requirements, go to the FDA website.