Create Food Labels that Consumers Can Trust

In 2017, customers are getting savvier and savvier about the ways they spend the money in their wallets and the foods they put into their mouths. Even though FDA labels are meant to inform consumers about the nutritional value of a food item, they are often not clear enough for many consumers to deem them trustworthy. It’s no secret that food manufacturers sometimes lie and mislead consumers to get them to purchase a less-than-perfect food product. But in 2017, customers are getting savvier and savvier about the ways they spend the money in their wallets and the foods they put into their mouths. Even though FDA labels are meant to inform consumers about the nutritional value of a food item, they are often not clear enough for many consumers to deem them trustworthy. Throughout this article, we’ll talk about what makes clear and concise food labels that customers can really trust.

Get Real About Serving Sizes

First of all, FDA labels tend to throw shoppers for a loop when it comes to determining the safety and health benefits of a product, mainly because serving sizes are so unrealistic. While the sugar, fat, or calorie content may seem low at first glance, it’s often unrealistic that the product would be consumed in that small of amount—so in reality, the actual fat, sugar, and calorie content is much higher. Instead, be honest and upfront about serving sizes. Customers will either care that the sugar content is higher than they expected or they won’t—but ultimately, they’ll appreciate the transparency from your company.

Don’t Throw Around the Words Organic, Natural, or Grass-Fed

All natural, organic, cage-free, and grass-fed products are all the hype right now. However, throwing those words around carelessly may have the opposite effect on shoppers if the words aren’t used correctly. Plus, shoppers are now realizing the real definitions of organic, natural, grass-fed, or cage-free, and brands will have a harder time misleading them or tricking them into purchasing something that doesn’t stay true to its claims.

Understand FDA Labels and Food Regulations

While there are no real regulations when it comes to labelling products as natural or all-natural, consumers generally only want brands to use these terms if they mean it. If a product doesn’t contain any artificial colors, flavors, or synthetic additives, it’s probably safe to say it’s all-natural. However, it’s difficult for companies to label anything as all-natural if there is any sort of processing involved. To ensure that your company is staying on top of the most recent FDA labels and regulations, be sure to visit the FDA’s website for updated information.