Author: Shamika | Read Time: 5 minutes
Overview
Food packaging labels must balance regulatory compliance with operational efficiency. This article explores the complexities of labeling for meat delivery services, emphasizing both compliance requirements and practical solutions.
Barcode Standards
There are more than 50 types of barcodes, with the most common being Code 128 and Code 39. Code 128 offers significantly higher information density than Code 39, which is limited to 39-character encoding. This makes Code 128 the preferred choice for meat labeling with complex information.
Label Material Requirements
Labels must be "clear, prominent, indelible, and readily legible by the consumer." Specific materials are required depending on product type—vinyl labels are essential for meat products due to cold chain moisture concerns.
Regulatory Details
- Ingredients listed in descending order by weight/volume
- Added colors, preservatives, and flavors require type declarations
- Multi-word ingredients capitalized only on first word of first term
- Weight units formatted as "kg" (lowercase, no dots)
- Specific spacing requirements around quantity declarations
- Must appear near brand name with contrasting background
Operational Solutions: Pre-Printed vs. Just-In-Time
Pre-Printed Labels
Traditional approach with fixed information, limiting flexibility.
Just-In-Time Printing
On-demand printing enables:
- Exact weight specification rather than estimated amounts
- Variable pricing capabilities based on actual weight
- Real-time inventory insights for better management
- Reduced labeling errors and material waste
Summary Recommendations
- Select appropriate label type based on your product and storage conditions
- Verify regulatory requirements for your specific items and market
- Implement just-in-time printing for accuracy and efficiency gains
Proper labeling ensures compliance, builds consumer trust, and optimizes operational efficiency in meat delivery operations.