Labeling and Packaging Guidelines for Cottage Food Products in Nevada

1. What information is required on the label of a cottage food product in Nevada?

In Nevada, there are specific labeling requirements for cottage food products that must be followed to ensure compliance with the law. The following information is required on the label of a cottage food product in Nevada:

1. The name of the cottage food product, which must accurately represent the item being sold.
2. The name and address of the cottage food operation where the product was produced.
3. The ingredients used in the product, listed in descending order of predominance by weight.
4. The net weight or volume of the product.
5. Any allergen information if the product contains common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.
6. The statement “Made in a cottage food operation that is not subject to routine government food safety inspection.
7. The statement “This product is home-produced and processed.
8. The statement “This product is not for resale.

It is important for cottage food producers in Nevada to understand and adhere to these labeling requirements to ensure the safety of consumers and compliance with state regulations. Failure to properly label cottage food products can result in fines or other penalties.

2. Are there specific font size and style requirements for labels on cottage food products in Nevada?

Yes, in Nevada, there are specific font size and style requirements for labels on cottage food products. The label text must be in a size that is easily legible and conspicuous to the consumer. It is generally recommended to use a font size of at least 1/16 of an inch in height for the net quantity of contents statement and at least 1/8 of an inch in height for all other mandatory label information. Additionally, the font style should be clear and easy to read, without any decorative or ornate elements that may impede readability. It is important to ensure that all required information, such as the product name, ingredients, allergen information, and contact details, are presented clearly and prominently on the label to comply with Nevada’s labeling regulations.

3. Can cottage food products in Nevada be sold without labels?

No, cottage food products in Nevada cannot be sold without labels. All cottage food products, including those sold at farmers markets or directly to consumers, must comply with specific labeling requirements outlined by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services. The labeling regulations are in place to ensure consumer safety and provide clear information about the product being sold. Some key labeling requirements for cottage food products in Nevada include:

1. Product Name: The label must include the common or usual name of the product, such as “homemade cookies” or “artisanal jams.

2. Ingredients List: A detailed list of ingredients used in the product must be included on the label, listed in descending order of predominance by weight.

3. Allergen Information: Any allergens present in the product, such as nuts, dairy, or wheat, must be clearly identified on the label.

4. Net Weight: The net weight or volume of the product must be indicated on the label.

5. Business Name and Address: The label must include the cottage food operator’s business name and address.

6. Nutritional Information (Optional): While not always required for cottage food products, providing nutritional information on the label can be beneficial for consumers.

It is essential for cottage food producers in Nevada to familiarize themselves with the specific labeling requirements to ensure compliance and maintain the quality and safety of their products.

4. Are there specific labeling requirements for allergens on cottage food products in Nevada?

Yes, in Nevada, there are specific labeling requirements for allergens on cottage food products. The regulations require that all allergenic ingredients be clearly identified on the product label. This means that if your cottage food product contains common allergens such as milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, or shellfish, you must list them on the label.

1. Allergen information must be displayed in a prominent and conspicuous manner on the product packaging.
2. The allergens should be listed in the ingredients list using their common names (e.g., “Contains: Milk, Eggs, Wheat”).
3. It’s important to ensure that the allergen information is easy to read and not hidden among other text on the label.
4. Failure to properly label allergens on cottage food products in Nevada can result in regulatory action, so it is crucial to adhere to these requirements to ensure consumer safety.

5. Are there specific labeling requirements for nutritional information on cottage food products in Nevada?

Yes, in Nevada, there are specific labeling requirements for nutritional information on cottage food products. Cottage food products in Nevada must include a statement disclosing that the products were made in a home kitchen that is not subject to the same inspections as a commercial kitchen. Additionally, the label must list the name and address of the cottage food operation, the common or usual name of the product, the ingredients of the product in descending order by weight, and the net weight or volume of the product. However, nutritional information, such as calorie count or nutrient content, is not required to be included on the label for cottage food products in Nevada. It is still recommended to provide such information voluntarily if possible to inform consumers about the nutritional content of the product.

6. Are there specific requirements for the placement of labels on packaging for cottage food products in Nevada?

In Nevada, there are specific requirements for the placement of labels on packaging for cottage food products. Here are some key guidelines to adhere to:

1. The label must be securely affixed to the package and easily readable by consumers.
2. The label should be placed in a prominent location on the package, such as the front or top.
3. All mandatory label information, such as the product name, ingredients, allergen information, net weight, and contact information must be clearly visible and legible.
4. It is recommended to avoid placing labels in a way that may be easily removed or obscured during handling or display.
5. Additionally, ensure that the label does not cover any required health or safety information provided by regulatory authorities.

By following these placement guidelines, cottage food producers in Nevada can ensure that their products are properly labeled and compliant with regulations, providing transparency and important information to consumers.

7. How should ingredients be listed on the label of a cottage food product in Nevada?

In Nevada, when labeling cottage food products, it is important to follow specific guidelines for listing ingredients. The ingredients should be listed in descending order of predominance by weight. Each ingredient should be listed individually, using common or usual names that consumers can easily understand. It is advisable to use specific measurements and not generic terms like “spices” or “flavors. Additionally, allergens must be clearly disclosed on the label, either within the ingredients list or in a separate allergen statement. It is recommended to highlight allergens in a different color or font to ensure they are easily noticed by consumers. Following these guidelines helps to ensure transparency and clarity for consumers regarding the ingredients used in cottage food products sold in Nevada.

8. Are there specific requirements for the use of logos or symbols on labels for cottage food products in Nevada?

Yes, there are specific requirements for the use of logos or symbols on labels for cottage food products in Nevada. When it comes to labeling and packaging guidelines for cottage food products in Nevada, it is important to ensure that any logos or symbols used on labels comply with the state’s regulations. The use of logos or symbols must not be misleading or false, and they should not suggest that the product has qualities or benefits that it does not possess. Additionally, any logos or symbols used should not violate any intellectual property rights or trademarks of other companies. It is crucial to review the specific rules and guidelines provided by the Nevada Department of Health or relevant regulatory agency to ensure compliance with labeling requirements for cottage food products in the state.

9. Can cottage food products in Nevada use recycled or eco-friendly packaging materials?

Yes, cottage food products in Nevada can typically use recycled or eco-friendly packaging materials. However, there may be specific guidelines and regulations that need to be followed when using such materials for packaging your products. Here are some important points to consider:

1. Check with the Nevada Department of Health or local health department to ensure that the recycled or eco-friendly packaging materials you plan to use meet all safety and sanitation standards required for food products.
2. Make sure that the packaging materials are suitable for the specific type of cottage food products you are selling, as some products may require specific packaging to ensure quality and freshness.
3. Clearly label any eco-friendly packaging materials used to ensure that customers are aware of their environmentally friendly nature and can properly dispose of or recycle them.
4. Keep in mind that while using recycled or eco-friendly packaging materials can be beneficial for the environment and appeal to eco-conscious consumers, it is important to prioritize the safety and quality of your cottage food products first and foremost.

10. Are there specific requirements for labeling homemade vs. commercially produced cottage food products in Nevada?

In Nevada, there are indeed specific requirements for labeling homemade versus commercially produced cottage food products. When it comes to homemade cottage food products, there are essential labeling guidelines that need to be followed, such as:

1. Clearly stating the name and address of the cottage food operation where the product was made.
2. Including a statement declaring that the product was homemade and not subject to state inspection.
3. Listing all ingredients in the product, including any potential allergens like nuts, dairy, or gluten.
4. Providing a “produced on” or “best by” date to inform consumers of product freshness.
5. Including a disclaimer that the product was prepared in a home kitchen that is not subject to state regulation or inspection.

On the other hand, for commercially produced cottage food products in Nevada, the labeling requirements may be more stringent and could involve additional elements such as nutritional information, specific wording or symbols related to allergens, and compliance with additional state regulations. It is crucial for cottage food operators in Nevada to carefully review and understand the labeling guidelines set forth by the state to ensure compliance and consumer safety.

11. Can cottage food products in Nevada make health or nutrition claims on their labels?

No, cottage food products in Nevada are not allowed to make health or nutrition claims on their labels. The labeling guidelines for cottage food products in Nevada, set by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services, do not permit any health claims, nutritional claims, or any other misleading information on the labels of cottage food products. It is essential to ensure that the labeling of cottage food products accurately represents the product and does not make any false or misleading claims to consumers. Following these guidelines helps maintain transparency and consumer trust in the cottage food industry.

12. Are there specific requirements for labeling organic or locally sourced ingredients on cottage food products in Nevada?

In Nevada, there are specific requirements for labeling organic or locally sourced ingredients on cottage food products. When labeling a product as organic, the ingredients must meet the standards set by the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Program. This means that the ingredients must be produced without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers, and must be sourced from farms or producers that are certified organic.

For locally sourced ingredients, it is important to accurately represent the origin of the ingredients on the label. If a product contains locally sourced ingredients, the label should clearly indicate this by stating the origin of the ingredients, such as “locally sourced from Nevada farms” or “made with locally sourced honey from Reno”. Consumers are increasingly interested in knowing where their food comes from, so providing information about the provenance of ingredients can be a valuable marketing tool for cottage food producers.

In summary, when labeling organic or locally sourced ingredients on cottage food products in Nevada, ensure that organic ingredients are certified as such and that the origin of locally sourced ingredients is clearly and accurately stated on the label to meet consumer expectations and regulatory requirements.

13. Are there specific requirements for labeling non-GMO or gluten-free products in Nevada?

In Nevada, there are specific requirements for labeling non-GMO or gluten-free products. When labeling a product as non-GMO, it must adhere to the standards set by the Non-GMO Project Verified organization, which requires products to undergo testing to ensure they are free from genetically modified organisms. This certification can be displayed on the product label to inform consumers of its non-GMO status.

Similarly, if a product is labeled as gluten-free in Nevada, it must meet the requirements set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for gluten-free labeling. The product must contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten to be considered gluten-free. Additionally, the label must clearly state that the product is gluten-free to help consumers with gluten sensitivities or allergies make informed choices.

It is important for cottage food producers in Nevada to carefully follow these labeling guidelines to provide accurate information to consumers and ensure compliance with regulations regarding non-GMO and gluten-free products.

14. Can cottage food products in Nevada include promotional materials or coupons on their packaging?

In Nevada, cottage food products can include promotional materials or coupons on their packaging, as long as certain guidelines are followed to ensure compliance with regulations. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Transparency: Any promotional materials or coupons must be clearly labeled as such and not mislead consumers about the product or its contents.

2. Compliance: Ensure that the promotional materials do not violate any food labeling regulations set by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services or any other relevant authorities.

3. Accuracy: Any information provided on the promotional materials must be accurate and truthful to avoid any potential misrepresentation of the product.

4. Safety: Ensure that the packaging materials used for promotional purposes are safe for food contact and do not pose any risk to consumers’ health.

By following these guidelines, cottage food producers in Nevada can effectively include promotional materials or coupons on their packaging to market their products while maintaining compliance with regulations.

15. Are there specific labeling requirements for products that are made in a shared kitchen in Nevada?

Yes, there are specific labeling requirements for products made in a shared kitchen in Nevada. When labeling cottage food products made in a shared kitchen in Nevada, it is important to follow the state’s guidelines to ensure compliance and consumer safety. Here are some key labeling requirements that may need to be considered:

1. Product Name: The name of the product should be clearly displayed on the label.
2. List of Ingredients: All ingredients used in the product must be listed in descending order of predominance by weight.
3. Allergen Information: If the product contains any of the major allergens like milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, or shellfish, they must be clearly identified on the label.
4. Net Weight: The weight of the product or quantity must be accurately stated on the packaging.
5. Name and Address: The label should include the name and physical address of the cottage food operation or shared kitchen where the product was made.
6. Nutrition Facts: While not always required for cottage food products, providing nutrition information can be beneficial for consumers.

It is important to refer to the specific regulations set forth by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services to ensure that all labeling requirements are met when producing cottage food products in a shared kitchen setting.

16. Can cottage food products in Nevada include QR codes or scannable technology on their labels?

In Nevada, cottage food products can include QR codes or other scannable technologies on their labels, as long as they comply with labeling guidelines set by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services. When using QR codes on packaging for cottage food products, it is important to consider the following:

1. Compliance: Ensure that the QR code does not replace any required information on the label, such as the product name, ingredients, allergen information, net weight, and contact information.
2. Accessibility: Make sure that the information accessible through the QR code is easily readable and understandable by consumers.
3. Accuracy: Verify that the information provided through the QR code is up-to-date and accurate, reflecting any changes in ingredients, allergens, or other relevant details.
4. Technology: Test the functionality of the QR code to ensure it works reliably on different devices and under various lighting conditions.
5. Transparency: Clearly inform consumers on the packaging about the purpose of the QR code and the type of information they can access by scanning it.

By following these considerations, cottage food producers in Nevada can effectively utilize QR codes on their packaging to enhance consumer engagement and provide additional information about their products.

17. Are there specific requirements for labeling products that are made with cannabis or CBD in Nevada?

Yes, there are specific requirements for labeling products that are made with cannabis or CBD in Nevada. Some key labeling guidelines for cannabis products in Nevada include:

1. All labels must include specific information such as the list of ingredients, THC and CBD content, net weight of the product, and the name and contact information of the manufacturer.
2. Labels must include warnings about the potential health risks associated with cannabis consumption, the importance of keeping the product out of reach of children, and the prohibition of driving or operating heavy machinery under the influence of cannabis.
3. In Nevada, products with CBD must be labeled in compliance with both state and federal regulations, as CBD is regulated as a controlled substance at the federal level.
4. Labels must not make any false or misleading claims about the health benefits of cannabis or CBD products.
5. Additionally, any packaging for cannabis products in Nevada must be child-resistant to prevent accidental ingestion.

It is crucial for businesses producing cannabis or CBD products in Nevada to thoroughly understand and comply with these labeling requirements to ensure consumer safety and regulatory compliance.

18. Can cottage food products in Nevada include endorsements or testimonials on their labels?

In Nevada, cottage food products are subject to specific labeling guidelines to ensure consumer safety and compliance with state regulations. Endorsements or testimonials on labels for cottage food products are generally not recommended, as they can be interpreted as health or nutritional claims that may not be verified or approved by the appropriate authorities. It is important for cottage food producers to focus on accurately representing the ingredients, allergen information, and nutritional facts of their products on the labels, as required by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services. Any misleading or false information on the labels of cottage food products can lead to regulatory issues and potential fines for the producer. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid including endorsements or testimonials on the labels of cottage food products in Nevada to ensure compliance with labeling guidelines and to maintain transparency with consumers.

19. Are there specific requirements for labeling products that are made with wild-harvested ingredients in Nevada?

In Nevada, there are specific requirements for labeling products that are made with wild-harvested ingredients. When using wild-harvested ingredients in cottage food products, it is crucial to ensure that the labeling complies with state regulations to provide clear information to consumers and maintain transparency. Here are some key points to consider when labeling such products in Nevada:

1. Ingredient List: Wild-harvested ingredients should be clearly listed on the product label in descending order by weight, as required for all ingredients used in the product.

2. Source of Ingredients: Include information on the label indicating that the ingredients were wild-harvested to inform consumers of the sourcing method.

3. Accurate Descriptions: The label should accurately depict the wild-harvested ingredients used in the product to avoid misleading consumers.

4. Nutritional Information: Ensure that the nutritional information provided on the label is accurate and comprehensive, including details on the wild-harvested ingredients’ nutritional content.

5. Allergen Information: Clearly identify any allergens present in the wild-harvested ingredients to help consumers with food allergies make informed choices.

By following these labeling guidelines, cottage food producers using wild-harvested ingredients in Nevada can ensure compliance with regulations and provide consumers with essential information about their products. It is essential to consult the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services or relevant authorities for specific requirements regarding the labeling of products made with wild-harvested ingredients.

20. Can cottage food products in Nevada use foreign languages on their labels?

In Nevada, cottage food products can use foreign languages on their labels, but there are some guidelines to consider to ensure compliance with labeling regulations. Here are some key points to keep in mind when using foreign languages on cottage food product labels in Nevada:

1. Clear and Accurate Translation: Ensure that the foreign language text accurately reflects the information provided in the primary language on the label. It is important to provide accurate translations of key information such as product name, ingredients, allergen information, net weight, and contact information.

2. Font Size and Placement: Foreign language text should be clearly visible and legible on the label. Make sure that the font size and placement of the translated text meet the minimum requirements set by the regulatory authorities to ensure that consumers can easily read and understand the information provided.

3. Bilingual Labels: Consider including bilingual labels that feature both the primary language and the foreign language to cater to a wider audience. This can help in effectively communicating product information to consumers who may not be fluent in the primary language used on the label.

By following these guidelines, cottage food producers in Nevada can effectively include foreign languages on their labels while ensuring compliance with labeling regulations and providing accurate information to consumers.