A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Labels for Food Products in the UK

Creating food labels in the UK is not just about branding or presentation. It is a legal requirement designed to protect consumers, ensure transparency, and support food safety. Whether you are a small artisan producer, an established manufacturer, or launching a new packaged food product, getting your food labels right from the start is essential.

This guide walks you through the full process of creating food labels for the UK market, from understanding regulations to choosing the right label materials and printing methods. It is written to help you stay compliant while also producing clear, professional labels that work in real-world food environments.

Step 1: Understand UK Food Labelling Regulations

Food labelling in the UK is governed by the UK Food Information Regulations, which set out what information must appear on food packaging. These rules apply to most prepacked foods sold to consumers and are enforced by local authorities.

In addition, Natasha’s Law introduced stricter requirements for allergen labelling on prepacked for direct sale foods. This applies to food prepared and packaged on the same premises where it is sold, such as cafes, bakeries, and takeaway businesses.

Before designing or printing labels, it is important to understand:

• Whether your product is classed as prepacked or prepacked for direct sale
  
  

• Which regulations apply to your specific product type
  
  

• That all information provided is accurate, current, and consistent
  
  

Food labels must not mislead consumers and must clearly communicate key safety information.

Step 2: Identify Mandatory Information for Food Labels

UK food labels must include specific mandatory information. Missing or incorrect details can lead to enforcement action or product withdrawal.

Most food labels must display:

• The name of the food
  
  

• A full ingredients list in descending order by weight
  
  

• Clear allergen highlighting within the ingredients list
  
  

• The net quantity of the product
  
  

• A use by or best before date
  
  

• Storage conditions where relevant
  
  

• The name and address of the food business operator
  
  

• Country of origin where required
  
  

This information must be easy to read, clearly visible, and not hidden or obscured by design elements.

Step 3: Get Ingredient and Allergen Labelling Right

Allergen labelling is one of the most critical aspects of UK food labels. The 14 recognised allergens must be clearly emphasised within the ingredients list, usually by bold text.

Common mistakes include:

• Failing to highlight allergens consistently
  
  

• Using unclear ingredient descriptions
  
  

• Omitting allergens present in compound ingredients
  
  

Accuracy is essential. Always verify supplier specifications and review recipes carefully to ensure labels reflect the exact product contents.

Step 4: Choose the Right Label Material for Food Packaging

Food labels need to perform in real environments, not just look good on screen. The correct label material depends on how and where the product will be stored and handled.

For short-life products such as food prep labels, date labels, or chilled items, direct thermal labels are often used. These are ideal for temporary information where labels are replaced frequently.

For retail packaging, long shelf life products, or labels exposed to handling and moisture, thermal transfer labels provide greater durability and print longevity.

You can explore suitable options within food labels available from CDM Labels to match different food applications.

Step 5: Select the Right Printing Method

The printing method you choose directly affects label performance and lifespan.

Direct thermal printing is commonly used for:

• Use by and best before labels
  
  

• Short term food identification
  
  

• High volume, on demand printing
  
  

Thermal transfer printing is better suited to:

• Retail food packaging
  
  

• Long-lasting product labels
  
  

• Labels exposed to moisture, handling, or temperature changes
  
  

Choosing the correct method ensures text and barcodes remain clear and legible throughout the product’s lifecycle.

Step 6: Design Food Labels for Clarity and Compliance

Design plays an important role in food labelling, but clarity must always come before creativity.

Good practice includes:

• Using legible font sizes and styles
  
  

• Ensuring a strong contrast between text and background
  
  

• Keeping mandatory information easy to find
  
  

• Avoiding clutter or decorative elements that obscure details
  
  

Labels should support quick understanding by consumers and enforcement officers alike.

Step 7: Test Labels Before Full Production

Before committing to full print runs, labels should be tested in real conditions.

This includes:

• Checking adhesion on actual packaging
  
  

• Testing labels in refrigerated or frozen environments
  
  

• Reviewing print clarity after handling
  
  

• Verifying allergen emphasis and legibility
  
  

Testing helps prevent costly reprints and ensures labels perform as expected.

Common Food Labelling Mistakes to Avoid

Some of the most common issues seen with food labels include:

• Missing or incorrect allergen information
  
  

• Labels that peel or smudge in cold conditions
  
  

• Using label materials not suited to food packaging
  
  

• Printing methods that fade too quickly
  
  

Avoiding these mistakes protects both consumers and your brand.

Why Work With a UK Food Label Manufacturer

Working with an experienced UK label manufacturer helps ensure your food labels meet both regulatory and practical requirements.

CDM Labels supplies a wide range of compliant food labelling solutions and guides on:

• Label materials and adhesives
  
  

• Printing methods for food environments
  
  

• Compatibility with thermal printers
  
  

• Reliable, consistent production
  
  

If you need tailored solutions, custom food labels can be produced to match your packaging, storage conditions, and operational needs.

Final Thoughts

Creating labels for food products in the UK requires accuracy, compliance, and careful material selection. By understanding regulations, choosing the right label type, and testing before production, businesses can avoid common pitfalls and build consumer trust.

If you are looking for reliable food labelling solutions, explore direct thermal labels, thermal transfer labels, and custom food labels from CDM Labels to ensure your products are labelled clearly, compliantly, and professionally.