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How to Translate Your Brand Identity into Packaging and Labels: A Step-by-Step Guide

⚞ The Highlights:

Your brand identity is your visual and verbal signature: name, logo, colors, typography, imagery, and voice. Packaging and labels are where customers meet it.
Branding, packaging, and labeling are related but distinct: branding is the identity, packaging is the physical container and its design, labeling is the applied label and its information.
Translate your identity by carrying your color palette, typography, logo, and voice consistently onto the label, guided by a brand guide.
The catch most brands miss: screen colors don’t print exactly, and material and finish change how your brand reads. Plan for the jump from digital to printed.
Consistency across your whole product line is what turns a nice label into brand recognition on a shelf.

Translating your brand identity into packaging means carrying the same colors, typography, logo, imagery, and voice that define your brand onto the physical product, so a shopper recognizes you at a glance. Your label is often the first and most frequent place a customer meets your brand, so it has to look and feel like the rest of your identity, not like a separate thing.

We help brands make that jump from a brand guide to a printed label every day, so we see where it goes smoothly and where it breaks down. Below, we walk through how the pieces fit together, how to translate your identity onto a label, and the print realities that catch brands off guard.

Branding, packaging, and labeling: what’s the difference?

These three terms get used together so often they blur, but they’re distinct pieces that work as a system. Understanding the difference makes every choice that follows easier.

	Branding	Packaging	Labeling
What it is	Your identity: name, logo, colors, voice	The physical container and its design	The label applied to the product and its info
Job	Define who you are and how you feel	Protect the product and present the brand	Identify the product and carry required info
Example	Logo, color palette, brand voice	The bottle, can, box, or pouch	The printed label with name, ingredients, barcode

What is branding?

Branding is your identity: the name, logo, colors, typography, imagery, and voice that make your product recognizably yours. It’s the feeling and promise a customer associates with you, expressed through a consistent look and voice.

What is packaging?

Packaging is the physical container and how it’s designed: the bottle, can, box, or pouch that holds and protects your product and presents it on a shelf. Packaging serves a functional job (protection) and a brand job (presentation) at the same time.

What is labeling?

Labeling is the label applied to the product and the information on it. That includes your brand design plus the required details: product name, ingredients, net contents, barcodes, and any regulatory information. The label is usually where your brand identity and the practical, legal requirements meet.

How they work together

Branding sets the identity, packaging gives it a physical form, and labeling carries both the brand and the required information to the customer. When all three align, a shopper sees a coherent product. When they don’t, the product feels off, even if each piece looks fine on its own.

What is brand identity, and why does packaging carry it?

Brand identity is the collection of visual and verbal elements that represent your brand and set it apart. On a shelf, your packaging is the version of that identity a customer actually touches.

The visual elements of brand identity

Logo: the primary mark customers recognize.
Color palette: the colors that trigger instant recognition.
Typography: the fonts that carry your personality.
Imagery and graphics: the photo, illustration, or pattern style you use.
Voice and tone: how your copy sounds, from playful to refined.

Why packaging is your most-seen brand asset

For a physical product, the package is often the first brand touchpoint and the one a customer sees most: on the shelf, in their cart, at home, in a photo they share. That makes it one of the best places to express your identity. A lot of purchase decisions happen fast and visually at the shelf, so a package that instantly reads as yours helps in the moment someone is choosing.

How packaging shapes what shoppers think

Design choices like color, shape, material, and typography shape how a shopper feels about your product before they read a word. Muted tones and uncoated paper read as natural or premium. Bright colors and glossy finishes read as fun and energetic. None of it is neutral, so every choice should map back to the brand you’re building.

Designing for your target customer

Design for the people you want to buy the product, not for your own taste. Research who they are and what catches their eye, then make choices that fit them. A supplement aimed at serious athletes and one aimed at wellness-focused parents call for very different looks, even in the same category. The clearer your customer, the easier every design decision gets.

How to translate your brand identity onto a label

Here’s how to move from brand identity to a finished label, step by step.

Start with your brand guide

A brand guide is the reference that keeps everything consistent: your logo files and usage rules, exact colors, fonts, imagery style, and voice. If you have one, it’s the source of truth for your label. If you don’t, building even a simple one before you design pays off immediately, and it’s the single most useful thing to hand a designer or printer.

Color

Color is the fastest way people recognize you. Carry your exact brand colors onto the label, and specify them precisely (more on why exact matters in the print section below). Color also carries meaning, so make sure your palette fits the feeling you want, whether that’s calm, bold, natural, or premium.

Typography

Use the fonts from your brand identity, and keep them legible at label size. Your type should feel like the same brand across your website, your ads, and your package. For more on making type work on a label specifically, see our typography tips for product labels.

Logo and imagery

Apply your logo consistently, at a size and clear space that keep it recognizable, and use the same imagery style (photography, illustration, pattern) you use elsewhere. Consistency here is what makes a lineup of products read as one family.

Materials and finish

The material and finish are part of your brand, not just a spec. Uncoated or kraft stock feels natural and honest. Soft-touch matte reads premium and modern. High gloss looks bright and fun, while foil or embossing says luxury. Choose the material that reinforces your identity, not just the cheapest option.

Voice and copy

The words on your label should sound like your brand too. A playful brand can be playful in its product description; a refined brand keeps its copy spare. Voice is easy to forget on a label, but it’s part of the identity you’re translating.

Ready to put your brand on a label?

Send us your brand guide and we’ll help translate it into a print-ready label, matching your colors, choosing the right material, and making sure it looks like you.
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Where brand identity meets the printed label

This is the step brands underestimate, and it’s where we spend the most time with customers. Your brand assets were almost certainly built for a screen, and a label is a physical, printed object. A few things change in that jump, and planning for them keeps your brand looking like itself.

Screen colors vs. printed colors

Screens show color in RGB (light), while labels print in CMYK inks, often with specific Pantone (spot) colors for brand hues. The two don’t map perfectly, so a color that glows on your website can print duller or slightly shifted if it isn’t managed. The fix is to define your brand colors as Pantone or CMYK values, not just a screen hex code, and to check them on a printed proof. For the full picture, see our guide to RGB vs. CMYK color formats.

How material and finish change brand perception

The same design reads differently on different materials. A logo color looks richer on gloss than on uncoated kraft, which absorbs ink and mutes it. A matte finish softens everything; a metallic film adds shine your artwork didn’t have on screen. Because material affects both color and feel, it’s worth choosing it as part of the brand decision and seeing your design on that actual stock before you commit.

What to hand your printer

Your brand guide, including logo files and color specs.
Vector artwork with fonts converted to outlines (so your type prints exactly, even if the printer doesn’t have your font).
Pantone or CMYK values for your brand colors, not just hex codes.
Your material and finish preference, or a request for guidance on it.
The container details, so the label is sized and shaped correctly.

Hand a printer those, and the translation from brand identity to finished label goes smoothly. Leave them out, and you risk a label that doesn’t quite look like your brand.

Keeping your brand consistent across products

Consistency across your whole product line is what turns individual labels into brand recognition. Use your brand guide to keep the core identity steady across every SKU: logo placement, color system, and typography. Allow thoughtful variation, like a different accent color per flavor, as long as the lineup still reads as one family. When you expand into a new product or market, adapt carefully rather than reinventing, so customers still recognize you. Our post on 8 steps to great label design is a useful companion here.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between branding, packaging, and labeling?

Branding is your identity: the name, logo, colors, typography, and voice that make a product recognizably yours. Packaging is the physical container and its design, the bottle, can, box, or pouch that protects the product and presents the brand. Labeling is the label applied to the product and the information on it, including brand design plus required details like ingredients, net contents, and barcodes. Branding sets the identity, packaging gives it physical form, and labeling carries both to the customer.

What is brand identity in packaging?

Brand identity in packaging is how your visual and verbal signature shows up on the physical product: your logo, color palette, typography, imagery, and voice. Because packaging is often the first and most frequent place a customer meets your brand, it’s one of the best places to express your identity consistently.

How do you translate a brand into a label design?

Start from your brand guide, then carry your exact colors, typography, logo, imagery style, and voice onto the label, keeping everything legible at label size. Choose a material and finish that reinforce the brand’s feel. Then account for print realities: define colors in Pantone or CMYK (not just screen hex codes) and check them on a printed proof, since screen color doesn’t map perfectly to printed ink.

Why do my brand colors look different when printed?

Screens display color in RGB (light) while labels print in CMYK inks, often with Pantone spot colors for brand hues, and the two don’t map perfectly. A color that glows on screen can print duller or slightly shifted if it isn’t managed. Define your brand colors as Pantone or CMYK values and confirm them on a printed proof on your actual material.

Why does brand consistency across products matter?

Consistency is what turns individual labels into recognition. When logo placement, color system, and typography stay steady across every product, a lineup reads as one family and customers recognize you at a glance. Thoughtful variation (like a different accent color per flavor) is fine as long as the core identity stays consistent.

Ready to bring your brand to the shelf?

If you’re ready to turn your brand identity into a label that looks like you, we’re glad to help. Request a sample pack to see materials and finishes, or get in touch with your brand guide and we’ll help translate it into print.

More on designing a label that reflects your brand:

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Organic Food Label Regulations and Labeling Requirements

⚞ The Highlights:

In the U.S., “organic” is a regulated term. It’s governed by the USDA’s National Organic Program, not the FDA.
There are four labeling categories based on organic content: 100% Organic, Organic (95%+), Made with Organic ingredients (70%+), and products with less than 70% organic ingredients.
Only “100% Organic” and “Organic” (95%+) products can display the USDA Organic seal.
If you sell more than $5,000 a year in organic products, you have to be certified by a USDA-accredited certifying agent before making organic claims.
The organic rules reach past the food itself. They restrict certain packaging materials, and the seal has its own design and legibility rules.

In the United States, “organic” is a legally regulated term, and the agency in charge is the USDA (through its National Organic Program), not the FDA. To label a food as organic, it has to meet a defined percentage of organic ingredients, and in most cases the business has to be certified by a USDA-accredited certifying agent. How you can describe the product, and whether you can use the USDA Organic seal, depends on which of four categories your product falls into.

We print labels for food and beverage brands every day, including plenty of organic ones, so we see where the rules meet the actual label: the percentages, the seal, and the packaging details that catch brands off guard. Here’s a plain-language walk through what it takes to label a food as organic. One note first: this is general guidance, not legal or compliance advice. For your specific product, confirm with the USDA or your certifying agent.

Who regulates organic food labels?

The USDA regulates organic food labeling in the U.S. through the National Organic Program (NOP), which sets the standards for what can be grown, produced, and sold as organic. People mix this up with the FDA all the time, so let’s be clear about it.

Is “organic” a regulated term?

Yes. Unlike “natural,” which has no strict federal definition for most foods, “organic” is legally defined and enforced. A business can’t simply decide to call a product organic. It has to meet the NOP standards and, in most cases, be certified before using the term on a label.

USDA or FDA: which regulates organic?

The USDA regulates organic claims, not the FDA. The FDA oversees general food labeling (things like the Nutrition Facts panel and ingredient list), but the organic claim itself falls under the USDA’s National Organic Program. So a packaged organic food follows FDA rules for its Nutrition Facts panel and the USDA’s rules for its organic claim at the same time.

The four USDA organic labeling categories

The USDA sorts organic products into four categories based on the percentage of organic ingredients by weight (excluding water and salt). The category decides how you can describe the product and whether you can use the seal.

Category	Organic content	USDA seal allowed?	Front-panel claim
100% Organic	100% organic ingredients	Yes	“100% Organic”
Organic	95% or more organic	Yes	“Organic”
Made with Organic ___	At least 70% organic	No	“Made with organic [up to 3 ingredients or groups]”
Less than 70% organic	Under 70% organic	No	No front claim; organic items listed only in the ingredient panel

100% Organic

Every ingredient has to be certified organic (water and salt don’t count toward the calculation). These products can carry the “100% Organic” claim and display the USDA Organic seal. This category mostly covers raw, single-ingredient products and minimally processed foods, since a multi-ingredient product is hard to keep fully organic.

Organic (95% or more)

At least 95% of the ingredients by weight are certified organic. The remaining 5% has to be either non-organic agricultural ingredients that aren’t commercially available in organic form, or approved substances from the National List. These products can be labeled “Organic” and can display the USDA Organic seal. This is the category most packaged organic foods aim for.

Made with Organic ___ (at least 70%)

At least 70% of the ingredients are organic. You can say “Made with organic [up to three named ingredients or food groups]” on the front panel, for example “made with organic oats and honey.” You cannot use the USDA Organic seal on these products. Worth knowing: products in this category still have to be certified through the same USDA process, even without the seal.

Less than 70% organic

If organic ingredients make up less than 70% of the product, you can’t make an organic claim on the front of the package and you can’t use the seal. You can only identify which specific ingredients are organic in the ingredient list on the information panel.

The USDA Organic seal

The USDA Organic seal is the round green-and-white (or black) mark you see on certified organic products. Shoppers recognize it and trust it. You can only use it if you qualify, though, and there are rules for how it appears on the package.

When can you use the USDA Organic seal?

You can use the seal only on products in the “100% Organic” and “Organic” (95%+) categories. Products in the “Made with Organic” and under-70% categories can’t display it, even though “Made with Organic” products are still certified.

What are the rules for displaying the seal?

The USDA provides the official seal artwork and expects it to be reproduced as-is. A few practical rules:

Approved colors only. The seal appears in its green-and-white form or in all black. You can’t recolor it to match your brand palette.
Keep it legible. It has to be clear and readable at the size you print it. There’s no single fixed minimum dimension, but a seal too small to read defeats the purpose and can draw scrutiny.
Don’t distort it. Keep the proportions. No stretching, cropping, or altering the mark.
Certifier name. The name of the certifying agent has to appear on the information panel of certified products.

Printing an organic label?

We help food and beverage brands get the USDA seal, the certifier statement, and the mandatory panels laid out and printed cleanly. We’ll make sure the seal reproduces correctly on your material.

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Getting certified organic

For most brands, using the word “organic” on a label starts with certification. Here’s how that works and who’s exempt.

How does organic certification work?

You work with a USDA-accredited certifying agent, who reviews your operation, your practices, and your ingredients against the NOP standards, then inspects your facility. Once you pass, you’re certified and can label qualifying products as organic. Certification is ongoing, with annual review and inspection to keep it current.

Who is exempt from certification?

Operations that sell $5,000 or less per year in organic products are exempt from certification. They still have to follow the NOP standards and label truthfully, but they don’t have to go through the full certification process. The catch: exempt operations cannot use the USDA Organic seal and cannot call their products “certified organic.” Certification is what unlocks the seal.

What happens if you make a false organic claim?

Mislabeling a product as organic when it doesn’t qualify can bring significant civil penalties per violation, on top of the reputational damage of a recall or public correction. The organic label carries a price premium precisely because it’s enforced, so the USDA takes false claims seriously. When in doubt about whether a claim is allowed, confirm with your certifying agent before you print.

Does organic certification cover your packaging and label?

Most brands think about organic rules in terms of ingredients. The rules reach the package too, and a lot of brands don’t realize it until they’re deep into certification. If organic is part of your brand promise, the packaging and label deserve the same attention as the recipe.

Packaging materials the organic rules restrict

The NOP restricts packaging materials, storage containers, and bins that come into contact with organic products. In particular, packaging that contains synthetic fungicides, preservatives, or fumigants isn’t allowed for certified organic products, and packaging can’t contaminate the food it holds. If you’re going through certification, your certifying agent will want to know what your packaging and labels are made of, so it’s worth confirming your materials early rather than after a run is printed.

What the seal and category rules mean for label design

The labeling category shapes the front of your package before a designer draws anything. If you’re in the “Made with Organic” category, the design can’t lean on the USDA seal, so the layout has to carry the organic story a different way. If you qualify for the seal, it needs space where it reproduces cleanly in its approved colors, and the certifier name needs a home on the information panel. Sorting this out up front keeps you from redesigning the label after certification tells you what you can and can’t show.

Pro tip: Decide your organic category before you finalize the label design, not after. The category controls whether the seal can appear and what front-panel claim is allowed, and those decisions ripple through the whole layout. It’s a lot cheaper to design around the rules than to redesign around them.

Other certifications you’ll see on organic labels

The USDA Organic program is the main event for U.S. organic claims, but a few other marks show up alongside it, especially for brands that sell internationally or lead with ethical sourcing.

Fair Trade certification

Fair Trade certification focuses on how a product is sourced, covering labor practices, fair pricing for producers, and sustainability. It’s a separate program from USDA Organic with its own certifying bodies and its own label. A product can be both organic and Fair Trade certified, but each claim has to be earned and documented on its own terms.

Canada Organic Regime (COR)

If you sell into Canada, you’ll run into the Canada Organic Regime and its COR seal. Canadian standards require that a product be at least 95% organic to carry the seal, similar to the U.S. “Organic” tier. The U.S. and Canada have an equivalency arrangement, but the labeling marks and some details differ, so products crossing the border need to meet both sets of rules. This is where the “COR” mark on food (which some shoppers ask about) comes from.

Getting your organic label right

Organic labeling comes down to three questions: what percentage of your product is organic, whether you’re certified, and which claim and seal that earns you. Answer those and the label rules fall into place. The part brands underestimate is that the rules touch the packaging and the seal itself, not just the ingredient list.

That’s where we can help. We print organic food and beverage labels and can make sure the seal, the certifier statement, and your material choices all line up with the rules. Request a sample pack to see our materials, including eco-friendly options, or get in touch and we’ll help you get a clean, compliant organic label to print.

Frequently asked questions

Is “organic” a regulated term?

Yes. In the United States, “organic” is a legally regulated term governed by the USDA’s National Organic Program. Unlike “natural,” which has no strict federal definition for most foods, “organic” is defined and enforced. A business can’t label a product organic without meeting the NOP standards and, in most cases, being certified first.

Does the USDA or the FDA regulate organic labeling?

The USDA regulates organic claims through the National Organic Program, not the FDA. The FDA oversees general food labeling such as the Nutrition Facts panel and ingredient list, while the organic claim itself falls under the USDA. A packaged organic food follows both sets of rules at once.

What percentage of ingredients must be organic to be labeled organic?

It depends on the category. “100% Organic” products contain only organic ingredients. “Organic” products contain at least 95% organic ingredients and can use the USDA seal. “Made with Organic” products contain at least 70% organic ingredients and can say “made with organic [ingredients]” but can’t use the seal. Products under 70% organic can only list organic items in the ingredient panel.

When can you use the USDA Organic seal?

The USDA Organic seal can only be used on products in the “100% Organic” and “Organic” (95% or more) categories. Products in the “Made with Organic” category and products under 70% organic can’t display the seal, even though “Made with Organic” products still have to be certified.

Do you have to be certified to label a product organic?

In most cases, yes. Operations selling more than $5,000 a year in organic products must be certified by a USDA-accredited certifying agent before making organic claims. Operations at or below $5,000 in organic sales are exempt from certification but still must follow the standards and can’t use the USDA seal or call their products “certified organic.”

Does organic certification cover packaging and labels?

Partly. The National Organic Program restricts packaging materials that contact organic products, including packaging that contains synthetic fungicides, preservatives, or fumigants, and packaging can’t contaminate the food. The USDA seal also has design rules: approved colors only, kept legible and undistorted, with the certifier’s name on the information panel.

What is the difference between “Made with Organic” and “USDA Organic”?

A USDA Organic product is at least 95% organic and can display the USDA Organic seal. A “Made with Organic” product is at least 70% organic, can name up to three organic ingredients or food groups on the front panel, but can’t display the seal. Both categories require certification.

Ready to print your organic label?

If you’re bringing an organic product to market, we can help you lay out the seal, the certifier statement, and the mandatory panels, and pick a material that fits both your brand and the organic rules. Request a sample pack to see our eco-friendly options, or get in touch and we’ll help you get it right before it prints.

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Which Foods Are Not Required to Have a Nutrition Label?

⚞ The Highlights:

Most packaged foods sold at retail in the U.S. require an FDA Nutrition Facts label, but six categories qualify for exemption.
The exemptions cover raw produce and seafood, foods with insignificant nutritional value, immediate-consumption foods, very small packages, bulk foods for further processing, and qualifying small businesses.
Even if a product is exempt from the Nutrition Facts panel, it still needs identity statement, net quantity, manufacturer info, ingredient list, and allergen declarations.
The moment a label or marketing material makes any nutrient or health claim (“low fat,” “good source of fiber,” “heart healthy”), the full Nutrition Facts panel becomes required. Even for otherwise-exempt products.

FDA regulations require that “almost all packaged foods intended for human consumption and sold at retail must include a Nutrition Facts label.” That panel has to show calories, fat, sodium, carbohydrates, protein, and other specific nutrients per serving. But there are six well-defined exemptions, and small food brands often qualify for at least one of them.

Below is who qualifies, what disqualifies you, and what’s still required even when you’re exempt. If you’re launching a food product or refreshing your packaging, this is the framework to work through before designing the label.

The six FDA nutrition label exemptions at a glance

Exemption type	What qualifies	What disqualifies you
Raw produce, fish, and seafood	Single-ingredient raw fruits, vegetables, or fish sold without claims; participates in a voluntary FDA labeling program (21 CFR § 101.45)	Any nutrient or health claim on the package; multi-ingredient products; processed products
Insignificant nutritional value	Plain coffee beans, tea leaves, spices, food colors, flavor extracts. Products with no meaningful calories, fat, sugar, or measurable nutrients	Adding ingredients that contribute nutrients; making any nutrient claim
Immediate consumption	Restaurant meals, freshly prepared deli items, foods consumed on-site	Prepackaged retail products; products sold for later consumption
Very small packages	Products with less than 12 square inches of label space, with no nutrient or health claims on package or marketing	Any nutrient or health claims on packaging or marketing materials, even if the package is small
Bulk for further processing	Ingredients shipped to manufacturers for further processing, not intended for retail sale	Retail-ready packaging; nutrition claims on the packaging
Small business / low volume	Companies with fewer than 100 full-time employees selling under 100,000 units annually; annual FDA filing required	Exceeding either threshold; making nutrient or health claims; failing to file the annual exemption with FDA

FDA Nutrition Label

Source: FDA.gov

This panel must follow a standardized format, including calories, fat, sodium, carbohydrates, protein, and other required nutrients per serving.

Most foods require a nutrition label

Before walking through the exemptions, the baseline rule: most packaged foods sold at retail in the U.S. require an FDA Nutrition Facts label. The standardized panel has to display calories, fat, sodium, carbohydrates, protein, and other required nutrients per serving, in the format the FDA specifies.

The exemptions below are real but narrow. If you’re not sure whether your product qualifies, the safest assumption is that it doesn’t. And verifying with the FDA’s published guidance before you commit to packaging is worth the time.

The six exemptions in detail

Produce in grocery store

1. Raw fruits, vegetables, and fish

Single-ingredient raw produce or fish sold without any nutrient or health claims fall under a voluntary FDA labeling program (21 CFR § 101.45). The program asks producers to provide nutrition information for the 20 most-consumed raw fruits, vegetables, and seafood, but compliance is voluntary, not mandatory.

The exemption applies to whole, single-ingredient items as they leave the farm or boat. Once you process, package, or combine them with other ingredients, the exemption stops applying.

2. Foods with insignificant nutritional value

Products that lack meaningful calories, fat, sugar, or measurable nutrients can be exempt. Common examples:

Plain coffee beans (whole bean or ground, no flavorings)
Tea leaves and tea bags (no added ingredients)
Spices and herbs sold as single-ingredient products
Food colors (FDA-approved color additives)
Flavor extracts (vanilla extract, lemon extract) where nutrient content is negligible

The minute you add ingredients that contribute calories or nutrients (sugar, milk solids, oils), the exemption no longer applies.

3. Foods sold for immediate consumption

Restaurant meals and freshly prepared deli items qualify only when they’re consumed on-site or sold for immediate consumption. Examples:

Restaurant menu items prepared and served at the restaurant
Deli sandwiches, soups, and prepared foods served from a deli counter
Bakery items sold on-premises
Catering items prepared for an event

The moment you prepackage a product for retail sale (a deli sandwich in a clamshell sold at a grocery store, for example), this exemption stops applying. Some restaurant chains also have separate menu-labeling requirements under different FDA rules. That’s a different conversation.

4. Foods in very small packages

Products with less than 12 square inches of total label space can be exempt from the Nutrition Facts panel. Common examples:

Single-serving condiment packets (ketchup, mustard, soy sauce)
Tea bags or coffee pods sold individually
Hard candies, gum sticks, and similar small-format products
Spice or seasoning sample packets

The catch: the exemption only applies if the product makes no nutrient or health claims anywhere on the package or in marketing materials. The moment you say “low sodium” or “no sugar added” on the wrapper, the full Nutrition Facts panel becomes required, regardless of package size.

5. Bulk foods for further processing

Ingredients shipped to manufacturers for further processing are exempt when they’re not intended for retail sale and don’t carry nutrition claims. Examples:

Bulk flour, sugar, or oil shipped to a bakery or food manufacturer
Bulk spices or seasonings shipped to a co-packer
Industrial-format ingredients in 50-pound bags or barrels

If the product is repackaged for retail sale at any point, the retailer or co-packer becomes responsible for adding the Nutrition Facts panel.

6. Small business / low volume exemption

Small food businesses can qualify for an exemption from Nutrition Facts labeling if they meet two thresholds:

Fewer than 100 full-time employees
Selling under 100,000 units annually of the specific product seeking exemption

The exemption isn’t automatic. Businesses must file annually through the FDA’s Small Business Nutrition Labeling Exemption system. If you make any nutrient or health claim, the exemption is void. Even if you’d otherwise qualify on the size and volume criteria.

This is the most common exemption for emerging CPG and craft food brands. If you’re under both thresholds and not making nutrient claims, file the exemption annually and you’re set.

When the exemption doesn’t apply: nutrient and health claims

The single most important catch across all six exemptions: any nutrient or health claim on the package or in marketing materials voids your exemption, regardless of which category you’d otherwise qualify under.

Examples of claims that trigger full Nutrition Facts labeling:

Nutrient content claims: “low fat,” “high in fiber,” “no sugar added,” “good source of protein,” “fat free”
Health claims: “supports heart health,” “may reduce risk of,” “promotes immune function”
Structure/function claims: “supports healthy bones,” “boosts energy” (these can also trigger drug-classification concerns separately)
Comparative claims: “less sodium than the leading brand,” “more protein than…”

If your packaging strategy depends on any of these messages, plan for the full Nutrition Facts panel from the start. Adding it later means a label redesign and a reprint.

Even if you’re exempt, you still need these label elements

Food label allergen information

Exemption from Nutrition Facts labeling doesn’t eliminate all label requirements. Every food product sold at retail in the U.S. still needs:

Statement of identity. The common or usual name of the product
Net quantity of contents. Weight, volume, or count, displayed on the principal display panel
Name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor
Ingredient list if the product has more than one ingredient (in descending order by weight)
Allergen declarations for any of the major allergens defined by FALCPA (milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, wheat, peanuts, soybeans) and FASTER Act (sesame, added in 2023)

Country-of-origin labeling and other product-specific rules may also apply depending on the category.

How to verify if your product needs a Nutrition Facts label

Walk through this checklist before committing to a label design:

☐ Is the product packaged for retail sale (not bulk, not immediate consumption)?
☐ Does the product contain meaningful calories, fat, sugar, or measurable nutrients?
☐ Does the product or its marketing make any nutrient or health claim?
☐ Does your business have 100 or more full-time employees?
☐ Do you sell more than 100,000 units of this product annually?
☐ Does the package have 12 square inches or more of label space?

If you answered “yes” to most of these, the Nutrition Facts panel is required. If you answered “no” to most of them, you may qualify for one of the exemptions. But verify with FDA before assuming.

Authoritative FDA resources to verify against:

FDA Food Labeling Guide. The comprehensive FDA reference
21 CFR § 101.9(j). Federal exemption regulations
FDA’s Small Business Nutrition Labeling Exemption. Annual filing for small business exemption

Frequently asked questions

What foods don’t need a Nutrition Facts label?

Six categories qualify for FDA exemption: (1) raw fruits, vegetables, and fish without claims; (2) foods with insignificant nutritional value like plain coffee, tea, and spices; (3) foods for immediate consumption like restaurant meals and deli items; (4) very small packages with under 12 square inches of label space; (5) bulk foods shipped to manufacturers for further processing; and (6) small businesses with fewer than 100 full-time employees selling under 100,000 units annually who file the FDA exemption.

Do I need a nutrition label if I’m a small business?

Possibly not, if you qualify for the FDA’s small business exemption. You need fewer than 100 full-time employees AND sell fewer than 100,000 units of the specific product per year. The exemption is not automatic. You must file annually through FDA’s Small Business Nutrition Labeling Exemption system. And if you make any nutrient or health claim on the label or in marketing, the exemption is void.

Does my product need a nutrition label if the package is very small?

Products with less than 12 square inches of total label space can be exempt from the Nutrition Facts panel. But only if no nutrient or health claims appear anywhere on the package or in marketing materials. Examples include single-serving condiment packets, individual tea bags, and small candy wrappers. The moment you add a claim like “low sodium,” the full panel is required.

Does coffee or tea need a Nutrition Facts label?

Plain coffee beans, ground coffee, tea leaves, and tea bags can qualify for the “insignificant nutritional value” exemption when sold without added ingredients. Once you add sugar, milk solids, oils, flavorings that contribute calories, or any nutrient or health claim, the exemption no longer applies and the full Nutrition Facts panel becomes required.

What’s required on a food label even if it’s exempt from Nutrition Facts?

Even with a Nutrition Facts exemption, every retail food product still needs: a statement of identity (common or usual product name), net quantity of contents on the principal display panel, name and address of the manufacturer/packer/distributor, ingredient list if multiple ingredients (in descending order by weight), and allergen declarations for the FDA’s major food allergens including sesame (added by the FASTER Act in 2023).

Do restaurant or deli foods need nutrition labels?

Foods sold for immediate consumption. Restaurant meals, freshly prepared deli items, on-site bakery products. Qualify for an exemption from Nutrition Facts labeling. The exemption applies only when the food is consumed on-site or sold for immediate consumption. Once a product is prepackaged for retail sale (a sandwich sold in a grocery store cooler, for example), it requires a Nutrition Facts label. Some larger restaurant chains also have separate menu-labeling requirements under different FDA rules.

Do nutrition label claims like “low fat” require a Nutrition Facts panel?

Yes. And this is the most common reason exemptions get voided. Any nutrient content claim (low fat, high fiber, no sugar added, fat free, etc.) or health claim (supports heart health, may reduce risk of) requires the full Nutrition Facts panel, even on otherwise-exempt products. If your packaging strategy depends on these messages, plan for the full panel from the start.

Confirm before you print

Most packaged foods at scale require Nutrition Facts labels. Confirming exemption status before you design or order a print run prevents costly reprints and launch delays. Both of which we’ve seen happen when a brand assumed it qualified for an exemption that didn’t actually apply once a “low sugar” claim went on the front of the package.

If you’ve worked through the checklist and your label is ready, take a look at our food labels for an overview of materials and finishes, or request a sample pack to see options in person. Get in touch when you’re ready for a quote. No minimums, fast turnaround, and an expert review on every project before anything goes to press.

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How to Prevent Labels from Cracking or Curling in Cold Storage

Cold storage is tough on labels. Between condensation, big temperature swings, and freezing temps, it’s easy for labels to curl, crack, or peel off if you don’t plan ahead. With the right choices in materials, adhesives, and finishes, your labels can hold up through the cold chain.

Cracking is usually a material problem. Papers tend to become brittle in the cold. Curling is usually an adhesive or application problem, such as the wrong temperature rating, moisture at application, or not enough bonding pressure.

Most of the time, the recipe for success is simple: pair a cold-rated adhesive with a moisture-resistant film and a protective finish.

Cold storage warehouse

Choosing the Right Label Materials for Cold Storage

The material your label is printed on sets the foundation for durability, and can be the difference between a label that cracks or curls and one that holds up.

For cold storage, some of the best material choices include:

BOPP (biaxially oriented polypropylene): A flexible plastic film that resists water and tearing. Think of it as the go-to for frozen dinners, ice cream, and beverages that end up in ice buckets.
PET Films: A tougher, slightly stiffer plastic that offers extra durability and holds its shape well. Often used in pharmaceuticals or premium products that require added toughness.

While those materials are good options, be more careful of these materials that could give you problems:

Coated paper: Works for dry, refrigerated cartons, but in humid coolers or freezers it’s prone to curling or smearing. Specialty freezer papers exist, but they’re usually best for secondary packaging.
Textured/uncoated papers: They may look great on a wine bottle at room temp, but in a cooler or freezer they soak up water and start peeling.

Rule of Thumb: If your product may sweat, freeze, or sit in an ice bath, films (BOPP or PET) are usually the safer choice. Paper is generally limited to dry, refrigerated environments.

Using the Right Adhesives

Adhesives are one of the most critical factors in whether your label will hold. Even the best label material or finish can fail if the adhesive isn’t matched to your application and storage environment.

First, you should know two different measures of temperature:

Application Temperature = the temperature when you apply the label.
Example: applying to a frosty beer can at 35 °F.
Service Temperature = the temperature where the product stays.
Example: a frozen entrée stored at –10 °F.

Knowing that for your specific product(s), you can then identify an adhesive that is compatible with your product’s environment:

All-Temperature Acrylics: Apply at ~20–40 °F, service down to –40 °F. Best for refrigerated foods, dairy, and beverages.
Freezer-Grade Acrylics / Hot-Melts: Apply as low as –20 °F, service down to –60 °F. These are designed for aggressive tack on frosty or wet cartons.

Note: These ranges are based on supplier specifications (Avery Dennison, UPM Raflatac, etc.), but it’s always important to double-check that the numbers line up with how you actually run your line.

Rules of Thumb: Refrigerated → all-temp. Frozen → freezer-grade.

Surface preparation for bottles

Prepare the Surface Properly

Even the right material and adhesive can fail if the application surface isn’t ready.

Clean & Dry Surfaces: Moisture, frost, or dust prevent adhesives from bonding.
Wet Applies: For cold-fill beverages or condensation-prone lines, use a wet-apply freezer adhesive designed for these conditions.

Protecting Your Labels

Finishes shield against water, abrasion, and smudging. Here are some options:

Gloss or matte laminate: Provides strong moisture protection to keep labels from whitening or peeling in cold storage. Matte laminates can still offer comparable durability while delivering a more soft or premium look.
Gloss or satin varnish: Offers a more subtle finish but generally provides less moisture protection than laminates. Best for applications on paper substrates where moisture exposure is minimal or texture and embellishment effects take priority.

Recommendation: For cold storage, pair a film base material (like BOPP) with a laminate for the most reliable protection.

Cold storage in grocery store

What Else to Consider?

A few additional factors will be helpful to share with your label printing partner so that your labels perform well throughout the cold chain:

Container Material: Adhesives interact differently with glass, PET, corrugated, or HDPE. For example, glass often benefits from freezer-grade acrylics for stronger bonding.
Temperature Cycling: Will your product move freezer → retail shelf → consumer fridge? Each swing stresses both adhesive and base material.
Moisture Exposure: Is your product sitting dry in a carton, or submerged in an ice bucket?
Regulatory Needs: Food and pharma labels must remain legible, include FDA-required information, and be barcode scannable for retail. Peeling or smudging can create compliance issues.

Quick Checklist for Avoiding Failures

Choose BOPP or PET films for refrigerated or frozen storage.
Match adhesive to your application & service temps.
Use wet-apply adhesives for cold-fill or condensation-prone lines.
Add a laminate for moisture-heavy environments.
Apply to clean, dry containers whenever possible.
Test labels through your actual cold chain, for example by running freezer-to-fridge-to-room temp cycles, and check for peeling, whitening, or smudging before scaling.

Preventing Cracking or Curling in Cold Storage

With the right safeguards in place, your labels will stay sharp and secure in cold storage. Not sure which label material makes sense for your products? Contact us and we’ll walk you through it.

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How to Prevent Labels from Melting or Warping in Hot-Filled Products

If you’ve ever had labels warp, peel, or slide right off bottles or jars after hot filling, you know how frustrating and costly that can be. We’ve seen it all, and we know what works (and what doesn’t). It’s always best to apply labels on a clean, dry, and room temperature container. But, sometimes it is necessary to hot fill.

Here’s what you need to know to keep your labels intact in hot-fill conditions.

Quick Checklist to Avoid Hot-Fill Label Failures:

Select heat-resistant label materials (like BOPP or PET)
Use adhesives specifically rated for high temperatures
Make sure containers are clean, dry, and prepped right
Choose label finishes that add durability (laminates, varnishes)
Test label performance in real-world conditions before scaling up

Pick the Right Label Material

The first thing to get right is your label material. Not all of them handle heat the same way. We recommend:

BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene): Durable, heat-tolerant, and reliable.
PET (Polyester): Excellent heat resistance and dimensional stability.
MDO: Similar to BOPP in terms of durability, heat tolerance, and reliability, MDO may be the better option depending on the container due to its flexibility.

Standard paper labels? Paper labels are possible for hot-fill products but be mindful of the type of adhesive used.

Not sure which material makes sense for your product? Contact us and we’ll walk you through it.

Choose Heat-Resistant Adhesives

Your adhesive is just as important as your material (if not more). Without the right one, even the best label will fail.

Most high-temp adhesives are rated for around 180–200°F, but results can vary depending on your container and fill speed. Always check the adhesive spec sheet and make sure it’s tested for your exact application.

Add Label Finishing for Extra Protection

Finishes help your label survive the journey from fill line to store shelf. They protect against scuffs, moisture, and the occasional warehouse disaster. Here’s what we like:

Clear polypropylene or PET lamination: Great for moisture and abrasion resistance. Check out our lamination options.
UV Varnishes: Good for extra durability without changing the feel too much.

Some finishes can change the look or feel a bit, so test them out before you commit.

Prep Your Containers the Right Way

Labels don’t stand a chance on a wet or dirty surface. And if you’re labeling plastics like polypropylene or HDPE, you’re starting with a tough surface to bond to. Here’s what helps:

Dry the containers completely. Use air knives or drying tunnels.
Wipe away oils, dust, or residue.

Prep won’t fix everything, but it goes a long way toward keeping your labels where they belong.

Apply Labels Under the Right Conditions

When it comes to applying labels after a hot fill, timing and pressure make all the difference:

Temperature: Wait until containers cool to below 90°F before labeling.
Pressure: Use consistent pressure so the label fully bonds.
Dwell Time: Let the adhesive cure for at least 24–72 hours before handling or shipping. That gives it time to fully settle in, especially in humid or changing environments.

Running at scale? Run a small test batch first and check with your applicator manufacturer for pressure settings.

Validate and Test Before You Go All In

Even with the right setup, things can go sideways. That’s why testing is key. We suggest:

Run a short trial batch.
Mimic your exact fill and cooling process.
Check your labels right away, then again after 24 and 72 hours.

Look for curling, peeling, bubbling, or anything that could get worse later. A little testing up front can save you a lot of headaches later.

Quick Summary

If you want labels that stay put after hot filling, you need the right combo of materials, adhesive, prep, and finishing.

Need help figuring it out? Contact us and we’ll help you find the right setup for your product, container, and process.

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Can Paper Labels Be Used on Cans?

Thinking about using a paper label on your cans? It’s possible and it can look great if you get the materials and application just right. Here’s what to consider before you commit.

Checklist Before Choosing Paper Labels

1. Can Surface & Shape Compatibility

Standard aluminum cans give you a smooth surface to work with, but things like condensation and spillage, it can still mess with label adhesion. Paper labels work well on gently curved cylinders. They’re not a great fit for tapered or sharply contoured shapes (see below).

2. Environmental Conditions

Paper without a protective finish struggles with moisture, cold, and friction.

Cold environments: Paper labels can start to struggle if your cans sit in cold storage (think under 40°F) for more than a quick chill.
Abrasion and handling: Labels can scuff, fade, or peel if not protected. A UV varnish or laminate makes a difference. (check out our guide to label durability for more info on this)

Paper needs a finish to survive distribution and refrigeration. That’s especially true for cans chilled before shelf display or used in ice buckets.

3. Finishing Options & Design Considerations

Paper gives you a lot of flexibility with look and texture, but without protection it won’t last in tough conditions.

You can improve both performance and presentation with:

UV varnish or gloss/matte lamination – a clear coating or protective film that shields your label from moisture, friction, and fading. See our lamination options.
Embossing or foil stamping – great options for coated or metalized paper

These finishes help keep moisture out, especially around the label edges where peeling or bubbling usually begins. They also help preserve that premium, hand-crafted texture that makes paper stand out.

4. Adhesive & Application Process

Not all adhesives behave the same on metal, especially in cold or wet conditions.

Acrylic-based adhesives generally hold up better in cold or humid environments.

It’s worth checking with your label provider to make sure the adhesive has enough tack time for your fill speed and conditions. If your line runs above 300 containers per minute or you’re applying labels to chilled cans, slower-tack adhesives can lead to labels shifting or lifting, especially if there’s condensation.

5. Regulatory & Food‑Safety Compliance

Any adhesive or ink needs to meet FDA indirect food contact standards. That means no harmful transfer if the label touches the product (like a wet can top contacting your mouth).

Your label also has to include everything required by the FDA or TTB: nutrition facts, identity statements, traceability codes, and allergen info, and it all has to hold up in real conditions without smearing or wearing off.

If you’re not sure how your label will hold up, ask about durability testing. There are standard ways to check for things like peel strength and moisture resistance.

6. Recyclability & Sustainability Trade‑Offs

Paper labels usually add about 1 to 1.5 grams to a standard aluminum can (around 8–10% of its total weight, depending on the material and finish). That can cause issues in some recycling systems that use weight to sort materials. For example, in parts of Canada, labels that add more than 1% to the can’s weight may keep it out of curbside recycling.

Removable adhesives can make things easier at the MRF (Materials Recovery Facility), but they don’t hold up as well in cold or wet environments and tend to tear more easily.

Quick Checklist: Can Paper Labels Work for You?

If you check all of these boxes, paper might be a viable option for your cans:

Label will be applied to a clean, oil-free metal surface
Can shape is gently curved—not heavily tapered
Environment does not include heavy refrigeration, condensation, or handling
You use coated paper with laminate or UV varnish for moisture and abrasion resistance
Adhesive is chosen for specific storage conditions
All inks and adhesives meet food-safety and traceability specs
You’ve considered recyclability and weight impact

Practical Use Cases Where Paper Works Well

You can expect paper labels to perform reliably when these apply:

Medium‑volume products stored in dry or ambient environments (like dry-mix cans)
Cans sold at room temperature or filled/packed with minimal chilling
Brands that want a natural or craft look but still need a label that sticks

In these situations, coated paper with a durable finish gives you a lower-cost solution that doesn’t sacrifice style or performance.

paper labels

When You Should Consider Film Instead

While paper can work on cans with all the right considerations, we typically recommend film labels, especially in high-moisture or cold-fill environments. Think about film labels in the following situations:

Your cans go into ice, freezers, or chilled displays for long periods
You handle large volumes that require consistent, high-speed application
Your can shapes include steep tapers or ridges where adhesion is tricky
Your product must be “infinitely recyclable” without residue

Film labels like BOPP, PET, or shrink sleeves are better suited for moisture, abrasion, and temperature extremes.

Bottom Line

Paper labels can work on cans, but only if you pair them with the right coatings, adhesives, and application process. When the conditions get tough (cold, wet, abrasion), film often becomes a safer bet.

If you’re ready to explore options or see samples, just contact us. We’ll walk you through how these materials perform in real-world conditions.

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What Label Materials are Best for Snack Packaging?

What’s the right label material for snack packages? You want something tough, with sharp printing, that won’t fall apart from the factory all the way to your customer’s kitchen.

From our experience and testing, MDO is the go-to choice for most snack labels. Here’s why it works so well, and how it compares to the other options out there.

MDO

What is MDO?
MDO (that’s short for Machine Direction Orientation) is a specially stretched plastic film. Think of it like a super-strong, flexible wrap that molds perfectly around your product without wrinkling or puckering.

Why we recommend it:

Built to last: Tests and customer feedback show MDO stands up to moisture, scratches, and temperature changes way better than plain paper or regular BOPP labels, especially in damp or refrigerated places.
Fits like a glove: The label molds smoothly around most containers, even if they’re round, angled, or just plain weird-shaped, so you won’t get any annoying wrinkles or peeling.
Colors that pop: Its smooth surface helps colors stay bright and sharp, so your packaging catches the eye on crowded store shelves.
Good for the planet (and your wallet): MDO labels are thinner but tough, which means less plastic waste, and often a nicer surprise for your budget.
Ready for anything: It plays nicely with lamination, UV varnish, and hot foil stamping (which protect your label, add shine or texture, and make your packaging feel premium).

Best use:
If your snacks are hanging out in the fridge, getting handled a lot, or need that premium shelf presence, MDO is the label you want.

What to watch out for:
It can cost more upfront than basic paper or standard BOPP. But a lot of companies find that the sturdiness means fewer label headaches down the line, making that extra investment worth it.

Other Common Label Materials: How They Compare

Coated Paper

What’s good:

High-quality look and feel
More embellishment options
Biodegradable and eco-friendly.

Where it falls short:

Doesn’t like moisture or rough handling.
Tears, curls, or smudges are common unless you add lamination.

Best for:
Dry snacks at room temp

Standard BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene)

What’s good:

Handles moisture and chemicals better than paper.
Durable enough for refrigerated or damp conditions.
Still reasonably priced.

Where it falls short:

Not as stretchy or flexible as MDO, so it can wrinkle on oddly shaped or squeezable containers or products.
Print colors aren’t quite as vivid.

Best for:
Moisture or refrigerated-exposed snacks with simple packaging shapes.

PET (Polyester)

What’s good:

Handles heat well, great for hot-fill sauces.
Stands up to chemicals and abrasion.
Feels more premium than BOPP.

Where it falls short:

Costs more than paper or BOPP.
Not the best for fancy finishes like embossing or foil stamping.

Best for:
Premium sauces or snacks that need to go through heat processes.

Vinyl

What’s good:

Tough against UV, scratches, and moisture.
Sticks like glue.
Thicker material than BOPP.

Where it falls short:

Pricey and not so environmentally-friendly.
Usually more than you need for typical snacks.

Best for:
Specialty snacks facing extreme conditions.

Quick Comparison Table

Material	Durability	Moisture Resistance	Print Quality	Conformability	Cost	Best Use Case
MDO	High	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent	Mid-High	Most snack bottles, especially curved or refrigerated
Coated Paper	Low	Low	Excellent	Moderate	Moderate	Dry snacks, budget-conscious
Standard BOPP	Moderate	Good	Good	Moderate	Low	Moisture-exposed, simple shapes
PET	Very High	Very High	Good	Low	High	Heat-processed or premium snacks
Vinyl	Very High	Very High	Good	Low	Very High	Extreme environments

Material Recommendations by Application

Best for most snack packaging:MDO. Its stretch and stability prevent wrinkles and give your products a snug fit.
Most cost-effective for dry snacks: Coated paper, but be ready to laminate for durability.
Best for refrigerated or moist environments: MDO or standard BOPP—both resist moisture well, but MDO offers better conformability.
For hot-fill sauces or premium snacks: PET provides heat resistance and a high-end feel.
For specialty or extreme conditions: Vinyl is tough, but usually overkill for most snack packaging.

Wrapping Up

If you want a label that holds up and looks great doing it, MDO is your best bet. It balances toughness and print quality better than most.

Need to see it in action? Request a sample pack or get in touch and we’ll show you what works.

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Red Labels That Inspire: A Gallery of Designs for Red Product Labels

Red is the color of passion, power, and unshakable confidence—and when it’s used on a label, it has the ability to make products pop off the shelves. The color red can make a product feel bold and fiery or rich and refined. In this post, we’re diving into some inspiring examples of red labels that demand attention, connect with customers, and leave a lasting impression.

Cocoa Santé Hot Cocoa

The deep red on the Cocoa Santé Parisien label grabs your attention instantly—it’s bold, luxurious, and exudes warmth and indulgence. It’s the kind of color that makes you feel like you’re about to unwrap something truly special, setting the perfect tone for a Parisian-inspired cocoa experience.

Bake Me Happy Baked Goods

The bright, cheerful red of the Bake Me Happy label is impossible to miss—it’s fun, welcoming, and gives off a sense of homemade joy. Paired with the playful scalloped edge and friendly typography, it’s like the packaging is saying, “Yes, it’s gluten-free, but it’s also packed with pure happiness!”

Baked cookies with custom labels

Iowa Legendary Rye Whiskey

The deep, rich red of the Iowa Legendary Rye label is sophisticated, and gives nod to its storied 100-year history, drawing you into the bootlegger’s era. With its bold typography and intricate golden accents, the design evokes craftsmanship and legacy.

Rye Whiskey Label

Mosinee Brewing Company’s Flashover Imperial Irish Red

The fiery red design of Mosinee Brewing Company’s Flashover Imperial Irish Red cans gives off intensity and energy, echoing the bold, full-bodied flavor inside. The subtle textured pattern adds depth and character, making this can unforgettable.

Roaring Table Brewing’s Inessential Houses IPA

The playful pink palette and charming illustrations on Roaring Table Brewing’s Inessential Houses can make it feel like you’re strolling through a vibrant, whimsical neighborhood. The design is as refreshing and unexpected as the Sour IPA inside.

Land Grant’s Splendid Berry Brut

The bright, playful red and intricate patterns on Land Grant’s Jeni’s Splendid cans mirrors the creativity and sweetness of its collaboration with Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. The design feels like a joyful celebration in a can—inviting, fun, and as delightful as the treat-inspired beer inside.

Watershed Distillery Bourbon

The bold red label on Watershed Distillery’s bourbon strikes the perfect balance between modern simplicity and timeless warmth, drawing attention to its refined craftsmanship. It’s a design that feels right at home at any gathering—inviting, approachable, and as smooth as the bourbon it represents.

North Country Charcuterie

The fiery red labels for North Country Charcuterie’s El Diablo Chorizo demand attention with their bold and spicy energy, channeling the heat-packed flavor inside. The clean typography and rustic packaging create an artisanal charm.

Custom food label for North Country

Stadium Pizza Write Shot Red

The bold red labels for Stadium Pizza’s Wrist Shot Red amber ale hit the mark with their energetic hockey-inspired design. The striking colors and dynamic illustration make this brew feel like a power play for your taste buds, perfect for game day or any day.

Cà Phê Sữa Đá Sang Vietnamese Coffee

The vibrant red label on Sang Vietnamese Coffee’s plant-based can is bold, modern, and full of energy. Paired with the minty green/blue typography, it’s a fresh twist on tradition that grabs your attention and promises a creamy, plant-powered coffee experience.

Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon

The rich, earthy tones of the Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon label evoke elegance and timeless sophistication, capturing the essence of Napa Valley’s craftsmanship. With its delicate script and balanced design, the label feels as refined and complex as the wine itself.

Wine bottle with red label

Big Mountain Ciderworks Cherry Blossom Cider

The Big Mountain Ciderworks Cherry Blossom label features a rich cherry-red background adorned with delicate floral accents that evoke freshness and sophistication. The interplay of bold typography and soft blossom imagery creates a perfect harmony, much like the semi-sweet cider inside.

bottle with custom cider labels

Krayasart Thai snack bites

The vibrant red packaging of Krayasart Thai Snack Bites demands attention with its intricate, mandala-inspired design that radiates energy and cultural authenticity. Perfectly complementing the bold chili-lime peanut flavor, this packaging promises a snack experience that’s as dynamic and exciting as its appearance suggests.

Specialty food packages with custom labels

Nomad Snack Company’s Raw Dark Chocolate Bars

The Nomad Snack Company raw dark chocolate bar packaging is a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern flair. With its kraft paper base and vibrant pink accent, it feels natural and handcrafted, while the copper foil logo adds a luxurious touch.

chocolate box with custom label

Asheville Spice Company All Y’All Spice

The bold orange/red label for Asheville Spice Company’s All Y’All Spice is as vibrant and flavorful as the blend itself, capturing the warmth of southern charm and the zest of its mountain-roasted ingredients. With its playful skillet graphic and hand-drawn typography, this packaging promises an authentic and lively seasoning experience.

Spice Seasoning Jars with Labels

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Restaurant Stickers: How Food Labels for Delivery and Takeout Orders Can Benefit Your Business

If you run a business where people order takeout or delivery, quality, consistent packaging is a must. However, it can be easy to overlook a valuable piece of the delivery and takeout puzzle – a food label.

No matter whether you call it a label or sticker, these markers can make a difference for your business. Here are three notable reasons why you should invest in food labels for your takeout and delivery orders.

Food Labels Can Provide Useful Information

A good label is a blank canvas for potential information, both for you and your customers. A single sticker is an easy way for you to share key business information with every container – and in a very professional, attractive manner as well. For example, the following details could prove useful to your customers:

Restaurant hours
Phone number
Website
Social media pages
Locations (if applicable)

Even though you’ve already completed a transaction, after an order, it doesn’t hurt to remind people how and where to contact you for their next order. Listed information can also prove useful for a new customer who had no idea they could follow you on social media or that you had a location near their mom’s house.

In addition to details like your phone number, stickers can also help you share information that’s custom to every order. A takeout label can easily include a blank space that’s designed for helpful features that would improve a customer’s experience. For example, a customer with a big order would probably appreciate it if each container had a sticker that listed what is in the container and when it was packaged. Sure, you could write it directly on a box, but labels look much more professional and act as a great way to include quality branding.

Food delivery and takeout labels being printed.

Food Labels Make for Extra Marketing Opportunities

Speaking of how labels make for more professional packaging, let’s talk about a key benefit of a good restaurant sticker: branding. Every takeout or delivery container is a marketing opportunity. Takeout and delivery labels are prime spaces to include your logo, color themes, and any other details that will resonate with customers. Any restaurant can slap a boring white sticker on a package and call it a day. Only yours can emblazon each order with your brand and get people excited before they open the container.

Another benefit of utilizing branded takeout labels is that it helps create a cohesive image for your business. From takeout containers to menus and signage, unified presentation is big for business. How big, you ask? One study estimates that consistent presentation of a brand can help increase revenue by 33 percent, so investing in some branded container labels can be a greater financial boon than you think. In fact, diehard fans may even appreciate an extra sticker or two in their bags – it never hurts to have your customers stick your brand in new places.

Food Labels Make Food More Secure

A good sticker offers do more than just look good and provide information. Restaurant labels can serve as tamper evident seals for delivery and takeout orders. That simple seal over the flap of a container can help protect food from devious delivery drivers. That’s a key safeguard with more people turning to delivery services like DoorDash and Uber Eats, especially since a 2019 study by U.S. Foods found that 28 percent of deliverers admitted to taking food from an order.

Even if you don’t rely on outside delivery people and trust your staff, the vast majority of customers still appreciate a tamper evident seal. That same study found that 85 percent of people would like restaurants to use some form of seal to protect their food. A simple seal can give your customers some peace of mind – and that’s something you can’t put a price on.

An assortment of food label stickers laying on a table.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Takeout and Delivery Stickers

Even a single sticker can make a notable impact on your packaging. Of course, that doesn’t mean you need to settle for basic labels for your restaurant. Every takeout or delivery label is a chance to educate and impress your customers, so it’s best to get the most out of these miniature marketing tools.

At Blue Label, we can help you enhance your labels without breaking the bank. If you really want to impress your customers, we can laminate to protect your artwork and add a textural element to your packaging. We can even utilize variable data printing technology to randomize certain elements – like different food items, slogans, or maybe pictures of your other menu options – of your labels and really spice up your sticker game. No matter what route you want to take, our experts can help you invest in stunning food labels for your to-go orders. Even better, our digital printing technology allows you to order labels in small quantities without sacrificing on quality and order flexibility.

Ready to amp up your takeout and delivery orders? Contact us today to talk to one of our experts about how we can help you improve your packaging.

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3 Ways to Make Consumers Notice Your Kombucha Labels

More people are looking to buy kombucha every day. Of course, this also means that more businesses want to make their own mark in the kombucha market. In a crowded field, product packaging can be the difference between success and a lack of sales. Here are three kombucha label trends that you can use to promote your products.

Show Off Your Colors (Both Inside and Out)

The natural aspect of kombucha is a major selling point, so don’t be afraid to channel that connection with your product labels. Utilize colors that not only pop, but also mirror the natural side of your kombucha. Full color label printing can help you achieve lush greens, vivacious reds, and other vibrant colors can help attract attention and promote your product at the same time.

The colors on your labels aren’t the only ones that can attract consumers. Clear kombucha labels allow you to show off the contents of your container to the world. Not only can the natural color of your kombucha intrigue consumers, people who like to see what they buy will also enjoy your transparency.

A closeup on a colorful kombucha label.

Showcase the Natural, Healthy Side of Kombucha

A big reason why people choose to buy kombucha is because it’s a better alternative to sugary, unhealthy beverages. Why not reinforce that perception on your label? Be open and honest about everything that goes into your product, especially if you source all-natural ingredients. If you want to be extremely transparent about your kombucha, you can even list the ingredients on the front. You’ll have to include them on the back anyway, so you can help build trust with ingredient-conscious customers by making the contents of your container a main selling point.

Another way kombucha can stand out is through the organic seal. According to Lumina Intelligence, half the kombucha products sold in the U.S. are organic. If that applies to your kombucha, make sure to add the organic seal to your labels. As long as you meet all the requirements for organic labels, that seal can serve as another reason why consumers will choose your products instead of the competition.

There are also other signifiers that can help you promote a healthier product on your label. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Federal Drug Administration (FDA) aren’t as strict about companies labeling their products as “natural,” but the word can still help you build that image for your product. You can also include specific health claims on your label if your kombucha qualifies for them via the FDA’s Food Labeling Guide.

An assortment of kombucha labels that show off the contents of their containers.

Use Your Label to Tell a Story

People want to relate to the products they purchase, and storytelling is a good way to help companies create a connection with consumers. According to an exercise conducted by authors Chip and Dan Heath, a group of Stanford University students shared stories that contained different facts to see what information people would retain. Five percent of students remembered specific statistics, while 63 percent remembered the stories the students told.

You don’t need to take up a lot of real estate on your labels to share your story. You can share a short origin story about your business next to the information panel. Is your kombucha part of a family-owned business? Let your consumers know. Have a funny story about how you started making your kombucha? Share it with the world. Storytelling can range from a simple, short sentence to a complex augmented reality labels, so don’t be afraid to use your packaging to promote your story.

Work with the Right Printer to Give Your Kombucha an Edge

A good label design plays a crucial part in selling your product, which is why it’s important to find a label printing company that can do your design justice. Blue Label Packaging Company has the state-of-the-art equipment and experience to make your products stand out among the competition. Contact Blue Label today to talk to our experts about your kombucha labels.