Major Updates in Food Labeling Standards – Here’s What You Need to Know!

The 2024 revision of the General Standard for the Labeling of Prepackaged Foods (CXS 1-1985) has brought significant changes that impact food businesses, manufacturers, and consumers alike. From mandatory allergen labeling to new rules on additives, processing aids, and how allergen information should be displayed, these updates are a major step forward in food safety and transparency. Let’s break down the key takeaways from our three-part series on these important changes.

1️⃣ Major Updates in Allergen Labeling

One of the biggest changes in the 2024 revision is the introduction of mandatory allergen labeling for key allergens, including:

• Gluten-containing cereals ✅
• Crustaceans ✅
• Eggs ✅
• Fish ✅
• Peanuts ✅
• Milk ✅
• Sesame ✅
• Nuts such as almonds, cashews, walnuts, and more

Additionally, allergens like buckwheat, celery, oats, lupin, mustard, and soy may also require labeling based on risk assessments. Why does this matter? These updates ensure greater transparency and reduce risks for consumers with food allergies or sensitivities. No more hidden ingredients—everything is clearly stated! 📺 Watch the full breakdown here: https://youtu.be/lEINq0IPu7U

2️⃣ Labeling Rules for Additives, Processing Aids & Exemptions

The revision also introduced new guidelines on food additives and processing aids:

🔹 Some ingredients derived from allergens might be exempt from labeling if a risk assessment proves they are safe.
🔹 Sulfites must now be labeled if present at 10 mg/kg or more—a crucial update for consumers with sulfite sensitivities.
🔹 Biotechnologically transferred allergens must always be declared, ensuring transparency in ingredient sourcing.
🔹 Processing aids and transferred additives don’t usually require labeling, unless they contain major allergens.
🔹 Even for small packages (under 10 cm² surface area), allergen declarations remain mandatory—no exceptions!

📺 Full video on these updates: https://youtu.be/teWWC1f0Z4l

3️⃣ How Should Allergen Information Be Displayed?

With these new labeling requirements, the way allergen information appears on packaging is also changing. The key takeaways:

🔹 Allergen names must stand out—this could mean using bold text, color changes, or unique font styles to make them easily visible.
🔹 Allergen information must be included in the ingredient list, a separate “Contains” statement, or both.
🔹 If a separate statement is used, it must follow strict rules: it must start with “Contains:” (e.g., Contains: Milk, Peanuts) and be placed right below or very close to the ingredient list.
🔹 Even if the allergen is already listed in the ingredients, it must also appear in the separate statement to avoid any confusion.
🔹 The only exception applies to single-ingredient foods (e.g., wheat flour), where the allergen is already evident.

📺 Final video in the series: https://youtu.be/lEINq0IPu7U

Final Thoughts

These updates are a huge step forward in improving food safety, transparency, and consumer trust. Whether you’re in food manufacturing, retail, or compliance, staying ahead of these changes is crucial.

🔔 Make sure to follow for more insights on food safety and regulatory updates!

What do you think about these changes? Let’s discuss in the comments! 👇