Understanding Compliance for FMCG Labels and Tags

Categorised in: Blog

If your business operates or will be operating in the FMCG market segment, there are many rules and regulations to follow. One of the most stringent sets of guidelines belongs to compliance regarding product labels and tags. Non-compliance can lead to fines, product recalls and damage to your brand’s reputation.

We have compiled this handy guide to help you understand compliance issues for FMCG labels and tags so you can avoid the common pitfalls.

Protecting the Consumer

The Consumer Protection Act plays a significant role in ensuring the safety of consumers. With this in mind, the following guidelines are stipulated for product labels and tags:

• The label must contain accurate information that in no way misleads the consumer.
• Use language that the average consumer understands.
• Information such as the product name, ingredients, manufacturer details, expiry dates, batch or lot numbers and safety warnings are basic necessities. 

The Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act focuses on the safety and quality of your product in the following ways:

• By providing accurate information on the product’s composition and any potential health risks 
• By ensuring your label and tags comply with the regulations for their specific category, such as those relating to allergens and GMOs,

The Importance of Compliance

There are many good reasons to ensure your labels and tags meet industry specifications, including:

• Brand protection: Correct labelling helps to build trust with your consumers and protects your brand’s reputation.
• Avoid legal issues: Errors or omissions can result in fines, recalls, legal action and reputation damage.
• Competitive advantage: By sticking to the rules, you show your consumers your commitment to quality and safety.

Label and Tag Essentials

• Use clear, easy-to-understand language on your labels and tags.
• Choose a size of writing that all your customers can easily read.
• The labels must be durable enough to last through handling and transportation.
• Labels must be in English, or where applicable, English and one other of the official languages.

The National Consumer Commission is responsible for enforcing labelling requirements in South Africa. Visit their website for information on their role in protecting the interests of consumers and addressing complaints of contraventions.

Contact Uniprint Global today to find out how we can help design and print robust, good-looking labels and tags for your business. Let us help you ensure your products meet the necessary labelling requirements and build your brand.

FAQs and Answers

1. Why is compliance important for FMCG labels and tags?
   Compliance ensures consumer safety, prevents legal issues, and maintains brand trust by adhering to regulations set by authorities.

2. What information must be included on FMCG labels and tags?
   Labels must include product name, ingredients, manufacturer details, expiry dates, batch numbers, safety warnings, and other mandatory details.

3. Which laws regulate FMCG labels in South Africa?
   The Consumer Protection Act and Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act regulate labelling to ensure consumer safety and product transparency.

4. What are the consequences of non-compliance with FMCG labelling regulations?
   Non-compliance can lead to fines, product recalls, legal action, and damage to a brand’s reputation.

5. How can clear labelling benefit FMCG businesses?
   Proper labelling builds consumer trust, ensures legal compliance, and provides a competitive advantage by demonstrating quality and transparency.

6. What language should be used on FMCG labels in South Africa?
   Labels must be in English, or where applicable, in English and one of the other official languages.

7. Who enforces FMCG label compliance in South Africa?
   The National Consumer Commission enforces labelling regulations and addresses complaints regarding non-compliance.

8. How can Uniprint Global help with FMCG labels and tags?
   Uniprint Global offers expert design and printing solutions to ensure labels meet compliance standards while maintaining brand appeal.