Labeling & Nutrition

These FDA Food Labeling web pages address the labeling requirements for foods under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and its amendments. Food labeling is required for most prepared foods, such as breads, cereals, canned and frozen foods, snacks, desserts, drinks, etc. Nutrition labeling for raw produce (fruits and vegetables) and fish is voluntary. We refer to these products as "conventional" foods. For detailed information on dietary supplements, a special category of products that comes under the general umbrella of foods, but which has separate labeling requirements, see "Dietary Supplements."* 

* Terms such as "functional foods" or "nutraceuticals" are widely used in the marketplace. Such foods are regulated by FDA under the authority of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, even though they are not specifically defined by law. 

What's New

FDA Intends to Extend Compliance Dates for Nutrition Facts Label Final Rules
June 13, 2017

FDA Publishes Biennial Uniform Compliance Date for Food Labeling Regulations To Be Issued In 2017-2018
November 23, 2016

FDA Issues Request For Information and Draft Guidance on Fiber on the Nutrition Facts Label
November 22, 2016

FDA Statement Regarding Soy Protein and Coronary Heart Disease Health Claim Review
June 30, 2016

Statement on FDA’s Actions on Labeling of KIND Products
May 10, 2016

Statement on Extension of Menu Labeling Enforcement
March 9, 2016