1. Labeling Location and Clarity
Prominent Location: The production date and expiration date must be prominently displayed on the main display panel of the smallest sales package. For multi-layered packaging, the date must be displayed on the outermost layer.
Clear and Readable: Use a high-contrast color such as black text on a white background. The minimum text height should be ≥3 mm (for packaging area > 35 cm²), and inkjet printing or other technologies should be used to ensure the content remains clear over time.
Formatting Standards: If using a labeling format such as "See [location on packaging]", the location description must be accurate and easy to find.
2. Date Labeling Standards
Order Requirement: The production date and expiration date must be labeled in the order of "year, month, day" (e.g., "Expiration date: December 31, 2025").
Simplified Labeling: For food products with a shelf life exceeding 6 months or a packaging area ≤ 20 cm², only the expiration date and expiration date need to be labeled; the production date does not need to be repeated.
3. Repackaged Foods: Both the repackaging date and the original production date must be labeled, along with the original food's expiration date.
Special Circumstances:
Multi-layer Packaging: When multiple individual food items are contained within the same package, the earliest expiration date can be labeled, or each individual item's expiration date can be labeled separately.
Imported Foods: Production dates cannot be affixed; the original production date and expiration date must be directly labeled.
4. Risks of Violation: Failure to label according to standards or alteration of date information may result in a fine of 10-20 times the value of the goods. Consumers who discover labeling issues can report them by calling 12315.
