Labels must conform by March 2011

These substantial reforms, which cover every industry and will be enforced by law from March 2011 through a self-regulating system, whereby competitors are expected to report each other for non-compliance.

Labelpak reminds manufacturers that they must meet all new modifications made to South African label legislation within the next six months in order to avoid hefty penalties. Labelpak director Mark Sherriff points out that it is the responsibility of the printer to help smaller companies with the details of the new regulations. As a result, Labelpak is providing a lower cost changeover to existing clients.

Time is running out

"Large and small customers alike will be turning to us for assistance and we are prepared to assist manufacturers with existing labels during the transition period at a reduced rate. This can make a notable difference to overall costs; however, manufacturers must be aware that time is running out," he stresses.

He warns that in addition to running the risk of having their products taken off the shelves, manufacturers may also face large origination costs when dealing with compliance processes.

"Manufacturers must make sure that they get all the necessary label changes right the first time, otherwise everything will have to be redone at a substantial cost. These changes are comprehensive, and entail a number of modifications. In order to meet these new requirements, a thorough detailing of label design must be looked at - from images and bar codes, to trademarks," he explains.

Key examples

• Most product claims will be ruled out: This includes nutrient function claims, enhanced-function claims, reduction of disease claims, pre and pro-biotic claims, glycaemic index claims, slimming claims and trans-fat claims. Labels will not read 'virtually fat free', but rather state that it contains less than 5 grams of fat per 100 grams, as an example
  
• Country of origin options: Are reduced to 'Product of', 'Produced in', 'Manufactured in', 'Made in' or 'Packed in'.
  
• Date/batch Identification is mandatory
  
• Food additives: Quantitative ingredient declaration must be indicated in the ingredient list.
  
• Allergens: Must be declared in the ingredient list
  
• Misleading descriptions: Including a word, statement, phrase, logo or pictorial representation that implies healthy/healthier/additive-free/veterinary medicine-free/more humane treatment or rearing of any animals.
  
• Nutritional information: where listed should be given in tabular format.

For detailed information on the new labelling legislation, email az.oc.bewm@kaplebal.