Food labeling
Food Labeling
Food labeling (pronunciation: /fuːd ˈleɪbəlɪŋ/) is a critical aspect of food safety and consumer protection that involves the communication of information about a food product through its packaging.
Etymology
The term "food labeling" is derived from the English words "food," meaning a substance consumed to provide nutritional support for the body, and "labeling," which refers to the act of attaching a descriptive tag or marker to something.
Definition
Food labeling refers to the printed information that appears on food packaging. This information can include the product's name, its manufacturer, its ingredients, nutritional information, preparation instructions, and any allergen warnings. The purpose of food labeling is to inform consumers about what they are buying and consuming, and to help them make informed choices about their diet.
Regulations
Food labeling is regulated by various national and international bodies, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in the European Union, and the Codex Alimentarius Commission at the global level. These bodies set standards for what information must be included on food labels, and how this information should be presented.
Importance
Food labeling is important for a number of reasons. It allows consumers to know what ingredients are in a food product, which can be critical for those with food allergies or dietary restrictions. It also provides information about the nutritional content of a food, helping consumers to manage their diet and make healthier choices. Finally, food labeling can provide information about the origin of a food product, which can be important for ethical or environmental reasons.
Related Terms
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