Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011

Understanding Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011: Provision of food information to consumers

Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 is a critical piece of legislation in the ever-evolving food safety and consumer protection landscape. This regulation covers various aspects of food labelling and information provision to enhance transparency and ensure consumers have access to essential food information. For food production and retail businesses, compliance with this regulation is a legal obligation and a commitment to consumer safety and trust. In this blog, Dr Richard Dune delves into the key aspects of Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011, providing valuable insights and best practices for effective implementation.

Key facts and statistics

Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011, also known as the Food Information to Consumers (FIC) Regulation, came into force on 13 December 2014. It applies to all food businesses operating within the European Union and encompasses over 500 million consumers. The regulation aims to ensure that consumers receive clear, accurate, and meaningful information about the food they purchase, thus enabling informed choices.
According to a survey conducted by the European Commission, 85% of consumers reported that food labelling significantly influences their purchasing decisions. Additionally, improper food labelling has been linked to numerous food safety incidents, underscoring the importance of compliance.

Key definitions

Food labelling - Any words, particulars, trademarks, brand names, pictorial matter, or symbols relating to a foodstuff and placed on any packaging, document, notice, label, ring, or collar accompanying or referring to such foodstuff.
Prepacked food - Any food intended for sale to the final consumer and mass caterers, consisting of the food and the packaging into which it was put before being offered for sale, whether such packaging encloses the food completely or only partially.
Allergen information - Information relating to the presence of any of the 14 allergens that must be declared by EU law, such as peanuts, milk, and gluten.

Recommended best practices for implementation

Comprehensive labelling

Ensure that all food products have comprehensive labels that include:

Ingredient list - A detailed list of all ingredients in descending order of weight.
Nutritional information - Information on energy value and nutrients, including fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and salt.
Allergen declarations - Clear and prominent declaration of any allergens present.
Storage conditions and shelf life - Instructions for storage and the 'use by' or 'best before' date.

Clear and legible information

Font size and style - Use a minimum font size of 1.2 mm for the x-height, ensuring readability.
Contrasting colours - Ensure a significant contrast between the text and the background.
Language - Provide information in the language(s) of the country where the product is marketed.

Training and awareness

Staff training - Regularly train staff on food labelling regulations and allergen management.
Consumer education - Educate consumers on reading and understanding food labels effectively.

Regular audits and updates

Internal audits - Conduct regular internal audits to ensure compliance with labelling requirements.
Stay updated - Keep abreast of any changes in legislation and update labels accordingly.

Implementation of Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011

Implementing Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 effectively requires a systematic approach:

Assessment and planning - Evaluate current labelling practices and identify areas needing improvement.
Compliance strategy - Develop a strategy that includes training, resource allocation, and a timeline for implementation.
Documentation and record-keeping - Maintain detailed records of all labelling changes, training sessions, and compliance audits.
Utilising technology - Leverage technology, such as ComplyPlus™ legislation and regulatory compliance management software, to streamline the compliance process. This software can help track regulatory changes, manage training, and ensure that all labelling requirements are met efficiently.

Conclusion

Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 is fundamental in promoting transparency and protecting consumer health within the EU. By adhering to the guidelines and implementing best practices, businesses can ensure compliance, build consumer trust, and avoid legal repercussions. Investing in comprehensive training and leveraging compliance management software like ComplyPlus™ can significantly ease the compliance burden and enhance overall efficiency.

Click here for more detailed guidance. To ensure your business stays compliant with all food labelling regulations, explore our ComplyPlus™ legislation and regulatory compliance management software. Our platform offers extensive training courses and compliance tools tailored to your needs.

About the author

Dr Richard Dune

With over 20 years of experience, Richard blends a rich background in NHS, the private sector, academia, and research settings. His forte lies in clinical R&D, advancing healthcare tech, workforce development and governance. His leadership ensures regulatory compliance and innovation align seamlessly.