Food Packaging Labeling Compliance and GB 7718 Marking Essentials

Food labels are an important channel for consumers to access food information and a key focus of food safety regulation. Non-compliant labels may result in product removal, recall, and administrative penalties.

1. Mandatory Labeling Content

According to GB 7718 "General Standard for the Labeling of Prepackaged Foods," prepackaged food labels must include: food name, ingredient list, net content and specification, name/address/contact of producer and/or distributor, production date and shelf life, storage conditions, food production license number, and product standard code. Irradiated food, genetically modified food, and nutrient-fortified foods require additional labeling.

2. Ingredient List Rules

The ingredient list must be headed by "Ingredients" or "Ingredient List," with all ingredients listed in descending order of quantity added during manufacturing/processing (ingredients at ≤2% may be listed outside descending order). Food additives must be labeled with specific names, using generic names from national standards. Compound ingredients must be expanded to show original ingredients (except those with national standards and added at <25%).

3. Nutrition Facts Table

According to GB 28050, prepackaged foods must include a nutrition facts table with core nutrients: energy, protein, fat, carbohydrates, and sodium ("1+4"). Values are per 100g/100mL or per serving, with NRV (Nutrient Reference Value) percentages. Nutrition claims (e.g., "low fat," "sugar-free") must meet standard content requirements. Exempt foods (e.g., fresh food, made-to-order, total package surface area ≤100cm²) are excluded.

4. Common Violation Issues

Common violations: blurred or altered production dates, ingredient list not in descending order, food additives without specific names, incorrect nutrition facts values or NRV calculations, false advertising (absolute terms like "best," "No.1"), and failure to declare allergens (gluten, peanuts, dairy, etc.). Enterprises are advised to establish a label review process and conduct compliance checks before new product launch.