Food Labeling Requirements in New Hampshire

1. What information is required to be included on a food label in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, food labels must include certain key pieces of information to comply with regulatory requirements. This information includes:

1. Product Name: The label must clearly state the name of the food product.

2. Ingredients List: The label must include a list of ingredients in descending order of predominance by weight. This helps consumers be aware of any potential allergens or intolerances.

3. Allergen Information: Any major food allergens, as defined by the FDA, must be clearly disclosed on the label.

4. Nutrition Facts: The label must include a Nutrition Facts panel, detailing the serving size, calories, and various nutrients present in the food product.

5. Net Weight: The label must also include the net weight or net volume of the product.

6. Manufacturer Information: The name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor must be included on the label.

7. Date Marking: If applicable, expiration dates or best-by dates should be clearly visible on the label.

8. Country of Origin: The label should indicate the country of origin of the food product if it was imported.

By ensuring that all these elements are included on the food label, manufacturers can provide consumers with important information about the product they are purchasing, aiding in transparency and informed decision-making.

2. Are there specific font size and format requirements for food labels in New Hampshire?

1. Yes, there are specific font size and format requirements for food labels in New Hampshire as outlined by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). According to the regulations, the labeling on food products must be “clear, conspicuous, and readily legible. This means that the font size should be large enough to be easily read by consumers, usually a minimum of 6 point font is required.

2. Additionally, the format of the food labels in New Hampshire should follow specific guidelines such as using bold or highlighted text for important information like the product name, ingredients, allergen information, nutrition facts, and the name and address of the manufacturer or distributor. The label should also be free from any misleading or false information and must comply with federal regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) depending on the type of food product.

In summary, while there are no specific font size and format requirements specified by the state of New Hampshire, food labels must adhere to general guidelines to ensure that important information is clearly presented and easily accessible to consumers.

3. Do food labels in New Hampshire need to include allergen information?

Yes, food labels in New Hampshire are required to include allergen information as per federal regulations set by the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA). This law mandates that manufacturers must clearly identify any of the top eight major food allergens – milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans – on their product labels. Specifically, in New Hampshire, as in the rest of the United States, food labels must clearly state if any of these allergens are present in the product or if it may have come into contact with them during processing. This information is crucial for consumers with food allergies to make informed decisions about the products they purchase and consume, helping to prevent potentially life-threatening allergic reactions.

4. Are there specific requirements for listing ingredients on a food label in New Hampshire?

Yes, there are specific requirements for listing ingredients on a food label in New Hampshire. The state follows the guidelines set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. In New Hampshire, food labels must accurately list all ingredients contained in the product in descending order of predominance by weight. Each ingredient must be listed using its common or usual name to ensure transparency for consumers. Additionally, any major food allergens such as milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans must be clearly identified on the label.

Furthermore, New Hampshire also requires labels to include any artificial colors, artificial flavors, and chemical preservatives used in the product. It is crucial for food manufacturers to comply with these requirements to provide consumers with essential information about the ingredients present in the food they consume. Failure to accurately list ingredients or allergens on a food label can have serious implications for public health and may result in regulatory action or fines. Therefore, food companies must adhere to these specific labeling requirements in New Hampshire to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.

5. Do food labels in New Hampshire need to include nutrition information?

1. Yes, food labels in New Hampshire need to include nutrition information in accordance with federal regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This requirement is essential for providing important details about the nutritional content of the food product to consumers, helping them make informed choices about their diet and health.

2. The FDA mandates that certain key nutritional information must be included on food labels, such as serving size, calories per serving, total fat, cholesterol, sodium, total carbohydrates, dietary fiber, sugars, protein, and certain vitamins and minerals. Additionally, labels must disclose allergen information if the product contains any of the major allergens recognized by the FDA, such as wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs, fish, or shellfish.

3. Food manufacturers are also required to adhere to specific formatting and presentation guidelines for nutrition information on food labels to ensure clarity and consistency. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in regulatory action and penalties by the FDA.

4. Therefore, it is crucial for food producers and manufacturers in New Hampshire to accurately compile and display nutrition information on their product labels to meet legal requirements and provide consumers with transparent and valuable information about the nutritional content of the foods they purchase.

6. Are there specific regulations for labeling organic food products in New Hampshire?

Yes, there are specific regulations for labeling organic food products in New Hampshire.

1. The New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets, and Food enforces regulations that align with the federal guidelines set by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for organic certification. This includes requirements such as using the USDA Organic seal, accurate representation of organic content, and adherence to specific production and handling practices.

2. Food products labeled as organic in New Hampshire must meet the USDA’s organic standards, which prohibits the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, growth hormones, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Producers must also maintain detailed records of their farming practices to ensure compliance with organic regulations.

3. In addition to the USDA requirements, New Hampshire may have specific state regulations related to the labeling of organic food products. It is important for producers and manufacturers to stay informed about both federal and state organic labeling requirements to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties or legal issues.

Overall, labeling organic food products in New Hampshire involves rigorous adherence to federal USDA organic standards as well as potential state-specific regulations to ensure transparency and consumer trust in the organic labeling of food products.

7. Are there any restrictions on health claims or marketing language on food labels in New Hampshire?

Yes, there are restrictions on health claims and marketing language on food labels in New Hampshire. The state follows the federal regulations set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with regards to food labeling. This means that any health claims or marketing language used on food labels must be truthful and not misleading to consumers. Additionally, New Hampshire requires that labels accurately represent the ingredients and nutritional content of the product.

1. Health claims must be supported by scientific evidence and cannot be exaggerated or misleading.
2. Marketing language must not make false or misleading claims about the health benefits of a product.
3. Any nutritional statements or information must be accurate and comply with FDA regulations.
4. Allergen information must be clearly and accurately disclosed on the label.
5. Labels must comply with New Hampshire’s specific requirements for labeling of locally produced foods.

Overall, food labels in New Hampshire must be transparent and provide consumers with accurate information to make informed choices about the products they are purchasing.

8. Do food labels in New Hampshire need to include a country of origin statement?

Yes, food labels in New Hampshire are required to include a country of origin statement for certain products. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations mandate that certain food items, such as meats, poultry, and fresh fruits and vegetables, must bear a country of origin label. This requirement ensures transparency and helps consumers make informed decisions about the products they are purchasing. Additionally, the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act governs food labeling regulations and requires that all food products be accurately labeled with important information including the country of origin. Failure to comply with these labeling requirements can result in penalties and enforcement actions by regulatory agencies. It is crucial for food manufacturers and distributors to understand and adhere to these regulations to ensure compliance and consumer trust in their products.

9. Are there specific requirements for labeling genetically modified organisms (GMOs) on food labels in New Hampshire?

Yes, there are specific requirements for labeling genetically modified organisms (GMOs) on food labels in New Hampshire. The state of New Hampshire follows the federal regulations set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding GMO labeling. Under the federal guidelines, manufacturers are not required to specifically label products as containing GMOs unless there is a material difference in the product due to genetic modification or if the GMO poses a health or safety risk to consumers.

However, New Hampshire has taken steps to implement its own GMO labeling regulations. In 2014, the state passed a law requiring the labeling of foods containing genetically engineered ingredients. This law was eventually superseded by the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard, which established a nationwide labeling standard for bioengineered foods. As such, products containing GMOs that are covered by this federal standard must be labeled accordingly in New Hampshire.

Furthermore, New Hampshire consumers have the right to know whether the food they are purchasing contains GMOs. Therefore, manufacturers and retailers are encouraged to voluntarily label their products as containing GMOs to provide transparency to consumers, even if it is not a mandatory requirement under federal law. This allows consumers to make informed choices about the products they buy and consume.

10. Are there regulations regarding the use of “natural” or “organic” claims on food labels in New Hampshire?

1. In New Hampshire, there are regulations in place regarding the use of “natural” or “organic” claims on food labels. Any food product making an “organic” claim must comply with the USDA National Organic Program regulations. This means that the product must meet specific requirements in terms of how the ingredients are grown, handled, and processed. Additionally, the term “natural” is not specifically defined by the USDA or the FDA, but the products labeled as such must not contain synthetic ingredients or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

2. Food manufacturers in New Hampshire must ensure that any claims of being “natural” or “organic” are truthful and not misleading to consumers. It is important for food producers to accurately represent their products on labels to avoid any potential legal issues or penalties. The New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food oversees and enforces these regulations to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of the labeling process within the state.

11. Do food labels in New Hampshire need to include a “best by” or expiration date?

Yes, all food labels in New Hampshire are required to include a “best by” or expiration date, provided it is a perishable food item. This information is crucial for consumers to determine the freshness and safety of the product they are purchasing.

1. The “best by” date indicates the period of time during which the product is expected to be at its peak quality in terms of flavor, texture, and appearance. It is a recommendation from the manufacturer on when the product is at its best but does not necessarily mean the product is unsafe to consume after that date.

2. On the other hand, the expiration date is a date determined by the manufacturer that indicates when the product may no longer be safe to consume. It is especially important for products like dairy, meat, and other perishable items where spoilage can occur.

Both the “best by” and expiration dates are important aspects of food labeling requirements to ensure consumer protection and understanding of the product they are purchasing.

12. Are there specific requirements for labeling food additives on food labels in New Hampshire?

Yes, there are specific requirements for labeling food additives on food labels in New Hampshire. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations apply to all states, including New Hampshire, and require that food additives be listed on the ingredient label of packaged foods. The food additive must be listed by its common or usual name or an appropriate descriptive term. In addition, the label must also indicate the function of the food additive in the product, such as a preservative or a coloring agent.

1. The FDA requires that food additives be listed on the ingredient label in descending order of predominance by weight.
2. The label must not be misleading and should accurately reflect the presence of any food additives in the product.
3. Food additives that are classified as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) do not need to be listed separately on the label.
4. It is important for food manufacturers in New Hampshire to comply with these labeling requirements to ensure transparency and provide accurate information to consumers regarding the presence of additives in their products.

13. Are there requirements for labeling allergens in bold or highlighted text on food labels in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, there are specific requirements in place for labeling allergens on food products. According to the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA), which is a federal law that applies to all states including New Hampshire, it is mandatory to highlight or bold the presence of major food allergens in the ingredients list on food labels. The eight major food allergens that must be emphasized on the label include milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans.

In addition to FALCPA requirements, New Hampshire may also have its own state regulations regarding food labeling, including allergen labeling. It is important for food manufacturers and producers in New Hampshire to stay informed about both federal and state-specific requirements to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations. Failure to properly label allergens can result in serious health risks for consumers with food allergies and can lead to regulatory enforcement actions against the food business. So, it is crucial for food businesses in New Hampshire to carefully review and adhere to all allergen labeling requirements to prioritize consumer safety.

14. Do food labels in New Hampshire need to include a statement of identity for the product?

Yes, food labels in New Hampshire, like all other states in the United States, are required to include a statement of identity for the product. The statement of identity is a clear and accurate description of the food product that allows consumers to know what the product is at a glance. This could include the common or usual name of the food product, such as “apple juice” or “whole wheat bread. Including a statement of identity on food labels is essential for ensuring transparency and helping consumers make informed choices about the products they purchase. This requirement is part of the broader regulations set forth by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to protect public health and provide clarity in the marketplace.

15. Are there specific regulations regarding the use of colors or graphics on food labels in New Hampshire?

Yes, there are specific regulations regarding the use of colors or graphics on food labels in New Hampshire. Here are some key points to consider:

1. The Food Labeling Regulations enforced by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services stipulate that all information on food labels must be clear, accurate, and not misleading to consumers.

2. In terms of colors, food labels must ensure that the use of colors does not misrepresent the product or make false claims about its characteristics.

3. Graphics used on food labels must also comply with regulations, ensuring that they are not deceptive or misleading in any way.

4. It is important for food manufacturers and distributors to be mindful of these regulations to avoid any potential legal issues or fines.

Overall, it is essential to be aware of and adhere to the specific regulations regarding the use of colors and graphics on food labels in New Hampshire to ensure consumer safety and transparency in the marketplace.

16. Are there requirements for labeling the net quantity of contents on food labels in New Hampshire?

Yes, there are specific requirements for labeling the net quantity of contents on food labels in New Hampshire. The net quantity of contents must be accurately stated on the label in both metric and US customary units. Here are some key points to consider:

1. The net quantity declaration should be placed on the principal display panel of the food package.
2. The declaration should be in specific units of weight, measure, numerical count, or a combination thereof.
3. The declaration must be placed within a defined area on the label, ensuring it is prominent and easily readable.
4. The accuracy of the net quantity statement is crucial and must reflect the actual amount of food contained in the package, considering any reasonable variations that may occur during production or packaging.
5. Additionally, the font size and placement of the net quantity declaration should comply with regulations to ensure visibility and clarity for consumers.

Overall, compliance with New Hampshire’s labeling requirements for the net quantity of contents is essential to provide accurate information to consumers and meet legal obligations.

17. Are there regulations regarding the use of symbols or logos on food labels in New Hampshire?

Yes, there are regulations regarding the use of symbols or logos on food labels in New Hampshire. The Food Labeling Regulations in New Hampshire, which align with the federal guidelines set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), require that all symbols or logos used on food labels must not be misleading or deceptive to consumers. These symbols or logos must accurately represent the product and its ingredients, nutritional content, or any specific claims made on the label. Additionally, any symbols or logos used must comply with the requirements outlined in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA) to ensure transparency and accuracy in food labeling.

1. It is essential for food manufacturers and producers in New Hampshire to carefully review and adhere to these regulations to avoid any potential legal issues concerning the use of symbols or logos on their food labels.
2. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in regulatory action, fines, or even product recalls, which can have a significant impact on a company’s reputation and bottom line.

18. Do food labels in New Hampshire need to include contact information for the manufacturer or distributor?

Yes, food labels in New Hampshire are required to include contact information for the manufacturer or distributor. This is a crucial aspect of food labeling requirements in order to ensure traceability and accountability in the event of a product recall or consumer inquiry. The contact information typically includes the name of the company, physical address, phone number, and/or email address. Providing accurate and up-to-date contact information on food labels is essential for consumer safety and regulatory compliance. Failure to include this information may lead to penalties or enforcement actions by regulatory authorities. It is important for food manufacturers and distributors to adhere to these labeling requirements to maintain transparency and trust with consumers.

19. Are there specific requirements for labeling multi-ingredient products on food labels in New Hampshire?

Yes, there are specific requirements for labeling multi-ingredient products on food labels in New Hampshire. Some key points to consider when labeling multi-ingredient products in New Hampshire include:

1. Ingredient List: The label must accurately list all ingredients present in the product, in descending order by weight.

2. Allergen Declaration: Any of the major food allergens as defined by the FDA (such as peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, soy, wheat, eggs, fish, and shellfish) must be clearly declared on the label.

3. Name and Address: The name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor must be included on the label.

4. Net Quantity: The net quantity of the product must be stated on the label in both US customary and metric units.

5. Nutritional Information: Some multi-ingredient products are required to provide detailed nutritional information, including the number of calories, fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and other nutrients per serving.

It is important to ensure that your product label complies with both federal regulations set by the FDA and any specific state requirements, such as those in New Hampshire. Failure to comply with these labeling requirements can result in penalties and potential removal of the product from the market.

20. Are there regulations regarding the use of bilingual or multilingual labeling on food products in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, there are specific regulations regarding the use of bilingual or multilingual labeling on food products. The state follows the guidelines set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for food labeling requirements. According to these regulations:

1. Information on food labels must be provided in English.
2. Additional languages can be used on food labels as long as the English text is prominent and easily understood by the consumer.
3. Bilingual or multilingual labeling can be used to provide important information such as ingredients, allergen statements, nutrition facts, and usage instructions in languages other than English to cater to non-English-speaking populations.

It is essential for food manufacturers to ensure that all mandatory labeling information is accurately translated and included in the required languages to comply with the regulations in New Hampshire and the FDA guidelines.