{"id":398,"date":"2024-08-23T20:34:24","date_gmt":"2024-08-23T20:34:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vannsspices.com\/journal\/?p=398"},"modified":"2025-09-04T22:18:21","modified_gmt":"2025-09-04T22:18:21","slug":"label-claims-and-certifications","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vannsspices.com\/journal\/label-claims-and-certifications\/","title":{"rendered":"Food Label Claims and Certifications"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Whether you are developing a new seasoning or updating an existing food product\u2019s label, an important consideration is the claims, certifications, and symbols to include on the label. Label claims and symbols that indicate certifications are visual elements that communicate product attributes, attract consumer segments, and enhance product sales.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What claims can be made, and what symbols can be used on a seasoning label? Let\u2019s start with some definitions and then delve into the specifics of various claims and certifications and how they impact your product\u2019s marketability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Claims<\/strong>
These are statements about a product\u2019s attributes or benefits, such as \u201clow sodium\u201d or \u201call natural.\u201d Government agencies often regulate claims to ensure they are not misleading. Claims do not require payment to or certification by a governing body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certifications<\/strong>
These are granted by governing organizations after a product or process has been evaluated and meets specific standards. Certifications usually come with a symbol or logo (e.g., USDA Organic, OU Kosher) that signifies compliance with the standards set by certifying bodies. (Fig 1<\/strong>) There are costs associated with certifications as defined by the certifying body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Fig 1: \u00a0<\/strong>USDA Organic and Non-GMO symbols<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With these definitions in mind, let\u2019s explore some standard certifications and claims and understand their implications for your product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Claims and Certifications on Labels<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

In addition to claims and certifications, labels often include a Nutrition Facts Panel (NFP). An NFP, which you\u2019ve probably seen on the label of nearly every retail food item, provides detailed information about the product\u2019s nutrient content, including calories, fats, proteins, and vitamins. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires Nutrition Facts labeling on most food products<\/a> sold in the United States, whether they are produced domestically or imported.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Seasoning blends may be exempt from FDA nutrition labeling requirements if they contain \u201cinsignificant\u201d amounts of all nutrients required to be included on the NFP. An NFP is necessary<\/a> if a nutrient or health claim, such as \u201clow sodium\u201d or \u201clow fat,\u201d is made on the label. Vanns Spices can help determine whether an NFP is required, and we can generate an NFP for your blend. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s explore some standard claim and certification options for seasoning labels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Common Label Health Claims<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

All Natural<\/strong>
\u201cAll-natural\u201d products should not contain synthetic flavors, colors, or preservatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

No Preservatives<\/strong>
The product does not contain added chemicals. Without preservatives, the product relies on its natural properties or packaging methods to stay fresh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Non-Irradiated<\/strong>
The product has not been exposed to ionizing radiation, which is sometimes used to kill bacteria or extend shelf life. Non-irradiated products are processed without this treatment, relying on alternative sterilization methods such as Ethylene Oxide (ETO) or steam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

No MSG<\/strong>
Monosodium glutamate (MSG)<\/a> is a flavor enhancer often added to foods. This claim indicates that the product does not contain MSG. This is particularly relevant for those sensitive to MSG or who wish to avoid it in their diet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

No Added Salt<\/strong>
The product contains no added salt. The product is formulated without adding salt, which can be important for those managing blood pressure or heart conditions. It may use alternative flavoring ingredients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

No Added Sugar<\/strong>
The product contains no added sugars or sweeteners. Sugar-free products use alternative sweeteners or flavorings or are formulated without sugar. This helps avoid the extra calories and potential health issues associated with sugar consumption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Non-GMO <\/strong>(just written on the package, no certification)
This refers to a label claim, not a non-GMO certification, which is covered in the next section. The term \u201cnon-GMO\u201d indicates that the product is made from ingredients that have not been genetically modified. This self-declared claim cannot include a \u201cNon-GMO Verified\u201d certification symbol from a certifying body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vegan<\/strong>
The product contains no animal products and is not processed using animal-derived substances. Suppliers must provide documentation proving that no animal products were used in the production or processing of the material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keto-friendly<\/strong>
A keto-friendly product aligns with the ketogenic diet and is low in carbohydrates and fats. The ketogenic diet aims to induce a state of ketosis in the body, where it burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. Keto-friendly products are formulated to be low in carbs and high in fats, sometimes with moderate protein. They typically avoid sugar and high-carb ingredients, opting for alternatives such as low-carb sweeteners or high-fat ingredients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Made in the USA<\/strong>
The product was manufactured or processed within the United States. It may include ingredients or spices from sources outside the U.S., but manufacturing and packaging occur in the USA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Low Sodium<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n