Labels for Your Bakery and Other Food Products

Here at United Label, we work with companies and clients from across the spectrum of businesses and products–but one type of request we get a lot is: food labels. So in this article, we’re going to discuss what kinds of labels are good for a bakery or other food products.

What Kinds of Labels Are Ideal for Baked Goods and Other Foods?

When it comes to labeling baked products and other food items, there are several types of labels that are commonly used. The choice of label depends on various factors, including the packaging material, the product’s environment (such as refrigerated or frozen), regulatory requirements, and branding considerations.

That being said, here are some types of labels commonly used for baked products and other food items:

1. Paper Labels: Paper labels are versatile and commonly used for a wide range of food products. They can be printed with product information, graphics, and branding elements. Paper labels are often used for dry or non-greasy bakery products like bread, cookies, and pastries.
2. Film Labels: Film labels are made from materials such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and are suitable for a variety of food products. They offer durability, moisture resistance, and can be transparent or printed with graphics and product information. Film labels are commonly used for packaged bakery products, snacks, and beverages.
3. Thermal Labels: Thermal labels are widely used for printing variable information such as barcodes, batch numbers, and expiration dates. These labels do not require ink and are printed using heat. Thermal labels are often used for quick service restaurants (QSRs), bakery cafés, and delis.
4. Pressure-Sensitive Labels: Pressure-sensitive labels are adhesive-backed labels that can be easily applied to various surfaces. They are available in paper or film materials and can be customized with product information, branding, and graphics. These labels are commonly used for a wide range of food products, including bakery items.
5. Wraparound Labels: Wraparound labels are used for products like bread loaves or cylindrical containers. They typically wrap around the entire package, providing ample space for branding and product information. These labels are often made of paper or film materials and can be customized to fit the specific packaging size.
6. Direct Printing on Packaging: In some cases, rather than using separate labels, manufacturers opt for direct printing on the packaging material itself. This method can provide a clean and seamless look and is commonly used for products like bread bags or pre-printed cartons.

There’s a lot to think about, and it’s important to consider factors such as the packaging material, label durability, regulatory requirements, and your branding strategy when choosing the ideal label for your specific bakery or food product.

What About Freezing and Refrigeration?

When it comes to labeling food products intended for storage in the freezer or refrigerator, it’s important to use labels specifically designed for cold and moist environments. These labels should be able to withstand low temperatures, moisture, and potential condensation. Here are some types of labels that are commonly used for freezer and refrigerator applications:

1. Freezer Grade Labels: Freezer grade labels are designed to withstand extremely low temperatures without losing adhesion or becoming brittle. These labels are made from materials such as polypropylene or vinyl, which are more resistant to cold temperatures than standard paper labels. Freezer grade labels are suitable for labeling items stored in the freezer and can endure prolonged exposure to sub-zero temperatures.
2. Water-Resistant Labels: Moisture and condensation are common in refrigerators, so labels that can resist water and remain intact are essential. Water-resistant labels are typically made of materials like vinyl or polyester. They have a protective coating or lamination that repels moisture and prevents the ink from smudging or running when exposed to damp environments.
3. Self-Adhesive Labels: Labels with a strong, permanent adhesive are important for freezer and refrigerator applications. They should adhere securely to various packaging materials, even in cold and moist conditions. Look for labels with a strong freezer-grade adhesive to ensure they stay firmly attached to the packaging throughout the storage period.
4. Removable Labels: For items that will only be stored in the refrigerator temporarily, removable labels can be useful. These labels have a specially formulated adhesive that allows for easy removal without leaving residue or damaging the packaging. Removable labels are commonly used in commercial kitchens, foodservice operations, or for meal prepping.
5. Pre-Printed Packaging: In some cases, food manufacturers opt for pre-printed packaging that includes the necessary information and branding directly on the container. This eliminates the need for separate labels and ensures that the packaging itself is designed to withstand freezer or refrigerator conditions. Pre-printed packaging can be made of materials like polyethylene or polypropylene, which are durable and resistant to moisture.

It’s important to consider the specific requirements of your product, the storage conditions, and any applicable regulatory guidelines when selecting labels for freezer and refrigerator applications. Test the labels in the intended environment to ensure they perform well and maintain their integrity throughout the storage period.

What Kinds Of Content Should Appear on Bakery Products?

As you can imagine, the specific requirements for bakery product labels may vary depending on the country or region where the products are being sold. However, here is some general information about what typically appears on bakery product labels (but please consult the relevant local authorities or regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with the latest guidelines in your specific area).

Here are some common elements found on bakery product labels:

1. Product Name: The name of the bakery product, such as “Whole Wheat Bread” or “Chocolate Chip Cookies.” For help with writing catchy marketing copy, check out our series on taglines.
2. Ingredient List: A detailed list of all the ingredients used in the product, starting with the most prominent ingredient and descending in order. This list may include items like flour, sugar, eggs, butter, yeast, flavorings, and preservatives.
3. Allergen Information: If the bakery product contains common allergens like wheat, eggs, milk, nuts, soy, or others, it’s important to clearly state their presence on the label. This helps individuals with allergies or dietary restrictions to make informed choices.
4. Nutrition Facts: A table or panel indicating the nutritional content of the bakery product. This typically includes serving size, calories, total fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, sodium, total carbohydrates, dietary fiber, sugars, and protein. Some jurisdictions may also require additional information, such as vitamin or mineral content.
5. Net Weight: The weight of the product, usually expressed in ounces, pounds, grams, or kilograms.
6. Date Marking: The production date, expiration date, or “best before” date to indicate the shelf life or freshness of the product.
7. Manufacturer Information: The name, address, and contact information of the bakery or company responsible for producing the product.
8. Country of Origin: The country where the product was manufactured or produced.
9. Handling Instructions: Any specific instructions for storing, reheating, or handling the bakery product, if applicable.
10. Additional Claims or Certifications: Labels may include additional claims, such as organic, gluten-free, non-GMO, or certifications that the product meets certain standards.

Contact United Label For All Your Label Needs

As you can see, there’s a lot to consider when creating labels for your bakery or other food products. Give us a call at 973.589.6500 or use the contact form to the right for a free consultation on your project.