Navigating the complex landscape of labeling in the food industry requires adherence to stringent federal guidelines, especially when it comes to ensuring safe contact with consumables. Delve into the distinctions between direct and indirect food contact labels, their material requirements, and the standards upheld by GMP Labeling to guarantee FDA compliance.

Labels used in the food industry must meet certain federal standards in order to be applied directly to a food product. Food labels are either manufactured for direct contact or indirect contact with food.

Direct contact labels are produced using specific materials for the label and adhesive that are approved by the FDA. In addition to being food safe, they must also adhere well to food materials and be aesthetically pleasing (if adhered to finished, consumer products).

Indirect contact means the label is adhered to a surface that is between the label and the food (cardboard packaging, plastic bottle, etc). These labels must adhere well to cardboard, plastic, or metal, and often are exposed to condensation and cool temperatures. In addition to adhesion capabilities, the adhesives must also meet FDA CFR 175.105 requirements for indirect food contact.