Recently, I came across a story in the German media that perfectly illustrates how seemingly insignificant details in product labeling can cause serious problems.
A German fruit puree manufacturer found herself in an unpleasant situation when a food inspector halted the sale of her jam due to the print on the labels being too small.
Even though her jam was of perfectly acceptable quality, the print on the labels was 0.33 mm too small compared to the required standards.
This example reminds us that every detail is important when it comes to product labeling—even those that may seem trivial.
Upon reading this news, I immediately thought of “our” chemical legislation. With the latest changes to the CLP Regulation (on classification, labeling, and packaging of chemicals), new, stricter rules for labeling chemicals are being introduced.
The new rules for chemical labeling come into effect on January 1, 2027.
So, to avoid a similar story as the German jam manufacturer, you should already start following the new rules for chemical labeling.
Although it may seem like there is still plenty of time until this date, my experience shows that adjustments take more time than we think.
The changes include precise requirements regarding font size, colors, contrasts, and the placement of safety symbols on labels. So don’t wait until the last minute.
Just imagine if something similar happened to you as to the German jam manufacturer—your product is of perfectly acceptable quality, but the chemical inspector finds that the print color on the label is not contrasting enough or that the safety symbols are not properly placed. The consequences may include halted sales, additional costs for re-labeling, and loss of time.
My advice is to take some time today and prepare in advance for the new requirements. Check your current labels, familiarize yourself with the new standards, and plan the necessary changes accordingly and on time.
If you have any questions regarding chemical labeling or need help adapting to the new rules, you can write to me at simona.miklavcic@bens-consulting.eu
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