What must go on the label

A PPDS label must show three things: the name of the food, an ingredients list, and any of the 14 allergens emphasised in that list. Meat products also need a percentage, called QUID, which has its own lesson. This information must be on the package or on a label attached to it. An allergen sheet on the counter does not replace a PPDS label.

Prepacked food needs more. As well as the name, ingredients and allergens, the label must show QUID where required, net quantity, a use-by or best before date, storage conditions, and the name and address of the business. It also needs the country of origin where required, instructions for use if needed, a nutrition declaration, and alcoholic strength for drinks above 1.2%.

If you add extra information to a PPDS label, such as a use-by date, it must be correct. Food law still requires the food to be safe.

A few items are treated differently. Fresh fruit and vegetables that have not been peeled or cut need no ingredients list. Alcoholic drinks above 1.2% need no ingredients list, but allergens must still be declared, for example 'Contains: wheat'. Very small packs, such as a sauce sachet whose largest surface is less than 10 cm², need no ingredients list on the pack. They still need a 'Contains' statement, and the ingredients must be available another way.