Please note that you are solely responsible for ensuring that your offers meet the legal requirements. Amazon cannot provide any legal advice. If you are unsure about the information that you need to provide for your product, or if you have any other questions about the legal requirements, we strongly recommend that you seek independent legal advice.
EU Requirements
All food items sold on Amazon websites in Europe must comply with The European Food Information for Consumers Regulation. (Refer to EU FIC, 1169/2011/EC.) This legislation sets out the mandatory labelling requirements for food.
For distance selling (e.g. selling goods online), mandatory information needs to be provided both at the point of sale (product detail page on Amazon) and at point of delivery (when goods are received by the customer). With regard to the information provided at point of sale, this can be through clear images of the product itself and/or through text on the product detail page (images and product detail page information must not contradict each other). If you have an active offer on any food product, it is your responsibility to ensure that this information is present, correct and up-to-date at all times.
See below an overview of the key requirements for the labelling of pre-packed food. Ensure that you have read the legislation and complied with all relevant requirements. This guide does not constitute legal advice.
UK Requirements
From 1 January 2021, an amended version of the EU FIC
applies to the sale of food products in the UK as a result of the Food (Amendment) (EU
Exit) Regulations 2019/529. Different rules apply to goods you sell in:
For distance selling (e.g. selling goods online), mandatory information needs to be provided both at the point of sale (product detail page) and at point of delivery (when goods are received by the customer). With regards to the information provided at point of sale, this can be through clear images of the product itself and/or through text on the product detail page (images and product detail page information must not contradict each other).
See below overview of the key UK requirements for the labelling of pre-packed food.
Ensure that you have read both the EU and UK legislation and complied with all relevant requirements. This material is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal advice. We encourage you to review the EU and UK legislation and consult your legal counsel if you have questions about the laws and regulations concerning your product. This material only reflects the position at the date of writing and requirements in the EU and/or UK may change. You should refer to current UK Brexit guidance about your products (where available) to learn more about the changes that may affect you from 1 January 2021.
Food (or foodstuff) means any substance or product, whether processed, partially processed or unprocessed, intended to be, or reasonably expected to be ingested by humans.
Please see below some examples of foods include:
Note that there are additional requirements in relation to certain other foods, including:
This guidance is applicable to pre-packed foods. Pre-packed products are foods that have been put into packaging before putting on sale and cannot be altered without opening or changing the packaging. For example, frozen food, tinned fruit and cupboard staples such as cereals and biscuits.
Mandatory requirements for both website and prepacked items
Depending on the nature of the product, some information is mandatory to be provided on the product label. Please see below for more detailed information on the applicable requirements.
The following product information must be displayed on the detail pages and/or on the Physical Label of pre-packed products in the language applicable to the country in which the product is sold (Germany: German; France: French etc). Information must be conspicuous, legible and adhere to font size requirements.
Product type | Location of information | Mandatory | Required informations*exceptions below |
---|---|---|---|
Pre-packed item | Physical label |
|
|
Pre-packed item | Product Detail Page |
|
As mentioned above |
Please see below a few exceptions, applicable either for the product label or the detail page or both:
*Exceptions to the durability indication requirement on the pre-packed products exist for the products below, where a LOT number may be included instead:
*Exceptions from mandatory labelling of list of the ingredients (Art. 19 of FIC Regulation) exist (for example) for the following foods:
*Exceptions from the mandatory labelling of the nutritional declaration (Annex V of FIC Regulation) exist for the following foods:
Ingredients identified as allergenic should be highlighted in the list of ingredients.
The below ingredients are allergens. If a food contains any of these allergens, they have to be highlight by means of a distinguishing typeset (for example all in capital letters etc.).
Please see below a list of all substances or products causing allergies or intolerances as stated in Annex II of 1169/2011/EC:Additional information for the Nutritional declaration
This is a mandatory label requirement for some products such as: beef, honey, fruit, vegetables, fish and olive oil. Please see below further explanations:
Claims on food products must not be false, ambiguous or misleading and should comply with the relevant requirements.
In general, claims for foods must not be false, ambiguous or misleading about:
Claims stating that food or its ingredient can help treat prevent or cure a disease or adverse condition is prohibited, as these would be considered medicinal claims and therefore would no longer be considered to be a food product. See the health claims section below for more information.
In addition, you can use only nutrition and health claims approved under EU Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006.
Nutrition claimsA nutrition claim is any claim that states, suggests or implies that a food has particular beneficial nutritional properties due to the presence, absence, increased or reduced levels of energy or of a particular nutrient or other substance. Nutrition claims provide information about the nutritional composition of the food. For example: 'source of calcium', 'low fat', and 'high fibre' and 'reduced salt'.
Only nutrition claims listed in the Annex to the EU Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 can be made in relation to food and only if the product meets the specific conditions of use for that claim. For example, 'low fat' can only be made on products containing no more than 3g of fat per 100g for solids. Click here for more information link.
Health claimsA health claim is any claim that states, suggests or implies that a relationship exists between a food category, a food or one of its ingredients and health. Only health claims authorised by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the Commission are permitted. The EU Register contains a list of specific health claims and the outcome of their assessment (whether authorised or not) as well as their conditions of use. An example of a specific health claim would be 'calcium helps maintain normal bones'. Generic and non-specific claims, such as 'good for you' or 'healthy' might be allowed if they are accompanied by a relevant specific authorised health claim listed in the EU Register, provided they meet the specific conditions of use.
Health claims cannot:
Nutrition and health claims are only permitted if the average consumer can be expected to understand the beneficial effects as expressed in the claim. As mentioned above, if general wellbeing claims are used (such as 'superfoods', ‘good for you’), then these must be accompanied by a specific health claim, i.e., you need to explain why it is considered a 'superfood'. For example, Mackerel, as part of a healthy balanced diet, can be considered a superfood because it is a source of Omega-3 fatty acids. The claim could therefore state: 'Omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA contribute to normal heart function' however, should be accompanied by explaining where the Omega 3 comes from 'contains x mg of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid per 100 g'. To use this health claim, you also need to tell the customer that the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 250mg EPA and DHA.
Further detailed explanation on labeling for detail page and the product label:The main images that should be provided and name tagged as such are highlighted
in bold below:
The inventory file templates (flat files) for ‘Food and Beverages’ and ‘Health and Personal Care’ contain specific attributes that should be used to provide (additional) food information. Please use the latest version of the inventory file template for “Food and Beverages” or “Health and Personal Care” to ensure information provided is the most up-to-date. For example for “Dietary Supplements” products, please use the flat file for “Health and Personal Care” and choose the feed_product_type “dietary supplements”. You can download the latest version of the complete file here.
Please note that you are solely responsible for ensuring that your offers meet the legal requirements. Amazon cannot provide any legal advice. If you are unsure about the information that you need to provide for your product, or if you have any other questions about the legal requirements, we strongly recommend that you seek independent legal advice. Please also note that in addition to the Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011, labelling requirements from other regulation could apply to your product.
Information on food products must always be provided in the language of the marketplace where the product is offered. In general, information on the product detail page must match information on the product packaging completely to be compliant.
Subject | Field Name | Notes or example* |
---|---|---|
Description of food item | item_type_name |
Certain foods have legal names that must be used if the product meets certain standards (e.g. jam). In other instances, a customary name (e.g. Bakewell tart) can be used. The legal name must include or be accompanied by information as to its physical condition. For example: powdered, refrozen, freeze-dried, quick-frozen, concentrated or smoked. It should also state if it has been subject to physical processes such as irradiation, pasteurization etc. Failing this, a descriptive name (e.g. pasta in tomato sauce) must be used. Please find below examples for the three types of item type names that can be used:
|
List of ingredients | ingredients |
List of ingredients in descending order of their amount. Allergens (see complete list in Annex II of the Regulation here ) need to be written in CAPITAL LETTERS e.g. “Sugar, Palm Oil, HAZELNUTS (13%), Fat-Reduced Cocoa (7.4%), Skimmed MILK Powder (6.6%), Whey Powder (MILK), Emulsifier: Lecithin (SOY), Vanillin” |
Label language | language_value | Specify the supported languages for the label, or languages of included manual or documentation e.g. “French” |
Nutritional information Following values should always be part of a mandatory nutritional declaration; does not apply to food supplements and natural mineral water |
serving_size |
The serving size on which the specified nutritional information is based. The serving size is set to a 100 ml liquids (e.g. coke or pasta sauce) and 100g for all solid products (e.g. chocolate, pasta and bread). For 100 ml or 100 g:
|
energy_content_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of energy in KJ per provided serving size here. Energy in kcal will be calculated and shown on detail page automatically For 2500 kJ:
|
|
total_fat_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of total fat in grams per provided serving size here. For 12 g:
|
|
saturated_fat_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of saturated fatty acids in grams per provided serving size here. For 11 g:
|
|
total_carbohydrate_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of carbohydrates in grams per provided serving size here. For 20 g:
|
|
sugars_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of sugars in grams per provided serving size here. For 17 g:
|
|
protein_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of proteins in grams per provided serving size here. For 8 g:
|
|
salt_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of salt in grams per provided serving size here. This is not the amount of sodium For 0,1 g:
|
|
Net quantity | solid_net_weight |
This attribute may be used to indicate the drained weight. If a product is present in a liquid medium (e.g. peaches in syrup), which isn’t part of the product itself, then this attribute is mandatory to fill in. Example: For 50 g or 50 kg:
|
item_display_weight The QUID (Quantitative Ingredient Declaration) tells a consumer the percentage of particular ingredients contained in a food product. |
Enter the item display weight here, if applicable.You may be required by law to complete this field. You must show a QUID if:
Example: For 200 ml or 200 l:
|
|
item_display_volume |
Enter the item display volume here, if applicable. You may be required to complete this field for legal reasons. Example: For 200 ml or 200 l:
|
|
Special instructions for storage and use | storage_instructions |
This is a mandatory requirement if there are any special conditions without which the product cannot be properly stored (example,. instructions for reduced shelf life after opening). Storage statements are required if the durability date is listed as 'use by'. Example, "Store in a cool place after opening", “Keep refrigerated”, "Once opened, store in a cool, dry place" |
use_by_recommendation |
If there are special instructions connected to the minimum durability date (example, conditions for storage to meet the labelled best before date) they should be added here. Example, "One week after opening", “at +4 to +7 °C” |
|
serving_recommendation |
Add special serving recommendation here. Example, "Serve at room temperature" |
|
Ingredients and additives that may trigger allergies or intolerance | allergen_information |
This advice is mandatory if a product contains allergens, but a list of ingredients is not required Example, contains “sulphites” (for wine), example: "milk" |
special_ingredients |
This is mandatory if a product contains food additives, but an ingredient list is not present Example, “Contains Preservatives” |
|
Precaution statements | safety_warning |
If there are any warnings about the product without which the consumer could possibly be harmed, this precaution statement becomes a mandatory labelling element. Example, "Pressurised container. Do not place in direct sunlight." “Not suitable for infants younger than 12 months old” “High caffeine content. Not recommended for children or pregnant or breast-feeding women” |
Directions for use | Directions |
The directions for use are mandatory if the product cannot be consumed without preparation. Example, "Place the spaghetti in boiling water and cook for approx. 12 minutes, stirring continuously." |
Name and address of the food business operator | manufacturer_contact_information |
Provide the Name and business address of the operator under whose name the food is marketed, or where not established in the EU, the importer Example, Structure of this labelling element: name, street, postcode, city, country (e.g. Example GmbH, Examplestreet 1-2,10555 Berlin, Germany) |
Country of origin or manufacture | country_of_origin |
This is the country where the product originates from, e.g. where a plant was produced or harvested, an animal was raised and slaughtered, fish caught. Example: Brazil |
country_string |
This is the country where the product was processed / produced / packaged. No need for an indication if the country of origin and the processing country are identical. Example: Country of origin for chicken is “Brazil”, but the processing country could be “Germany” (e.g. cutting of the meat) |
|
primary_ingredient_country_of_origin |
If there is an indication of the country of origin on the detail page, but the country of origin of the primary ingredient (=main ingredient) differs, please add the country for the primary ingredient here. Example: Country of origin for yoghurt is “Germany”, but the milk originates from “France” |
|
primary_ingredient_location_produced | If there is an indication of the country of processing on the detail page, but the country of processing of the primary ingredient (=main ingredient) differs, please add the country for the primary ingredient here | |
Details of the alcohol content for beverages with more than 1.2% alcoholic strength by volume | alcohol_content |
Is a mandatory labelling element for all beverages with alcohol content more than 1.2 % vol. Example, for 12 % vol.:
|
*please note that for some attributes only specific values can be used
Please note that you are solely responsible for ensuring that your offers meet the legal requirements. Amazon cannot provide any legal advice. If you are unsure about the information that you need to provide for your product, or if you have any other questions about the legal requirements, we strongly recommend that you seek independent legal advice.
Additional information for the Nutritional declarationIn addition to the mandatory nutrition declaration mentioned, other nutrients may be included, such as vitamins and minerals. The nutrient should always be accompanied by the percentage of the Nutrient Reference Value (%NRV). Vitamins and minerals can only be listed, if present in a significant amount. Only Vitamin and Mineral substances listed in the Directive 2002/46/EC and amendments thereof can be used in the manufacture of food supplements.
A significant amount is defined as:
See the table below for an overview of the attributes that can be added to the nutritional values:
Subject | Field Name | Notes or examples |
---|---|---|
Monounsaturated Fat | monounsaturated_fat_per_serving_string | The amount of mono-unsaturated fat in grams per serving size. |
Polyunsaturated Fat | polyunsaturated_fat_per_serving_string | The amount of poly-unsaturated fat in grams per serving size. |
Polyols | sugar_alcohols_per_serving_string | The amount of polyols in grams per serving size. |
Starch | starch_per_serving_string | The amount of starch in grams per serving size. |
Dietary Fibre | dietary_fibre_per_serving_string | The amount of dietary fibre in grams per serving size in grams. |
Vitamin A | vitamin_a_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin A in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin A" is provided in micrograms. |
Vitamin D | vitamin_d_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin D in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin D" is provided in micrograms. |
Vitamin E | vitamin_e_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin E in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin E" is provided in milligrams. |
Vitamin K | vitamin_k_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin K in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin K" is provided in micrograms. |
Vitamin C | vitamin_c_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin C in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin C" is provided in milligrams. |
Thiamin | thiamin_per_serving_string | The amount of thiamin in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Thiamin" is provided in milligrams. |
Riboflavin | vitamin_b2_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin B2 in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin B2" is provided in milligrams. |
Niacin | niacin_per_serving_string | The amount of niacin in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Niacin" is provided in milligrams. |
Vitamine B6 | vitamin_b6_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin B6 in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin B6" is provided in micrograms. |
Folic Acid | folic_acid_per_serving_string | The amount of folic acid in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Folic Acid" is provided in micrograms. |
Vitamin b12 | vitamin_b12_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin B12 in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin B12" is provided in micrograms. |
Biotin | biotin_per_serving_string | The amount of biotin in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Biotin" is provided in micrograms. |
Pantothenic Acid | pantothenic_acid_per_serving_string | The amount of pantothenic acid in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Pantothenic Acid" is provided in milligrams. |
Potassium | potassium_per_serving_string | The amount of potassium in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Potassium" is provided in milligrams. |
Chloride | chloride_per_serving_string | The amount of chloride in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Chloride" is provided in milligrams. |
Calcium | calcium_per_serving_string | The amount of calcium in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Calcium" is provided in milligrams. |
Phosphorus | phosphorus_per_serving_string | The amount of phosphorus in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Phosphorus" is provided in milligrams. |
Magnesium | magnesium_per_serving_string | The amount of magnesium in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Magnesium" is provided in milligrams. |
Iron | iron_per_serving_string | The amount of iron in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Iron" is provided in milligrams. |
Zinc | zinc_per_serving_string | The amount of zinc in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Zinc" is provided in milligrams. |
Copper | copper_per_serving_string | The amount of copper in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Copper" is provided in milligrams. |
Manganese | manganese_per_serving_string | The amount of manganese in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Manganese" is provided in milligrams. |
Fluoride | fluoride_per_serving_string | The amount of fluoride in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Fluoride" is provided in milligrams. |
Selenium | selenium_per_serving_string | The amount of selenium in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Selenium" is provided in micrograms. |
Chromium | chromium_per_serving_string | The amount of chromium in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Chromium" is provided in micrograms. |
Molybdenum | molybdenum_per_serving_string | The amount of molybdenum in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Molybdenum" is provided in micrograms. |
Iodine | iodine_per_serving_string | The amount of iodine in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Iodine" is provided in micrograms. |
For more information, refer to:
Example of external service providers:
Name of the company | Marketplaces covered | Website | contact information |
---|---|---|---|
Ashbury Labelling | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | http://www.ashburylabelling.co.uk/ | amazon.sellers@ashburylabelling.co.uk |
Bilacon/Tentamus | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | https://www.tentamus.com/ | labelling@tentamus.com |
Campden BRI | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | https://www.campdenbri.co.uk/ | |
Eurofins | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | labelling@eurofins.com | |
Intertek | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | http://www.intertek.com | |
Leatherhead | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | http://www.intertek.com | |
Merieux Nutriscience | IT, ES, FR | labelling@eurofins.com | |
SGS | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | https://www.sgs.com/ |
The UK Regulations apply to all products sold in the UK, but the provisions apply differently to Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales, “GB”) and Northern Ireland. You can read more about the position in Northern Ireland (“NI”) below. Food (or foodstuff) means any substance or product, whether processed, partially processed or unprocessed, intended to be, or reasonably expected to be ingested by humans. See below some examples of foods included:
Note that there are additional requirements in relation to certain other foods, including:
This guidance is applicable to pre-packed foods. Pre-packed products are foods that have been put into packaging before putting on sale and cannot be altered without opening or changing the packaging. For example, frozen food, tinned fruit, and cupboard staples such as cereals and biscuits.
Depending on the nature of the product, some information is mandatory to be provided on the product label. Please see below for more detailed information on the applicable requirements.
The following product information must be displayed on the detail pages and/or on the Physical Label of pre-packed products in English. Information must be conspicuous, legible, and adhere to font size requirements.
Mandatory requirements for both website and prepacked items | |||
---|---|---|---|
Product type | Location of information | Mandatory | Required informations*exceptions below |
Pre-packed item | Physical label |
|
|
Pre-packed item | Product Detail Page |
|
As mentioned above |
Please see below a few exceptions, applicable either for the product label or the detail page or both:
*Exceptions to the durability indication requirement on the pre-packed products exist for the products below, where a LOT number may be included instead:
*Exceptions from mandatory labelling of list of the ingredients (Art. 19 of FIC Regulation) exist, for example for the following foods:
*Exceptions from the mandatory labelling of the nutritional declaration (Annex V of FIC Regulation) exist for the following foods:
Ingredients identified as allergenic should be highlighted in the list of ingredients.
The below ingredients are allergens. If a food contains any of these allergens, they have to be highlight by means of a distinguishing typeset (for example all in capital letters etc.).
Please see below a list of all substances or products causing allergies or intolerances as stated in Annex II of 1169/2011/EC (as retained and amended by UK law):
This is a mandatory label requirement for some products such as: beef, honey, fruit, vegetables, fish and olive oil. Please see below further explanations:
Claims on food products must not be false, ambiguous or misleading and should comply with the relevant requirements.
In general, claims for foods must not be false, ambiguous or misleading about:
It is also prohibited to make claims that food or its ingredient can help treat prevent or cure a disease or adverse condition.
In addition, only nutrition and health claims that have been approved under EU Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 (as retained and amended by UK legislation via the Nutrition (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019/651) on nutrition and health claims made on food can be used on the label and detail page under.
Nutrition claimsA nutrition claim is any claim that states, suggests or implies that a food has particular beneficial nutritional properties due to the presence, absence, increased or reduced levels of energy or of a particular nutrient or other substance. Nutrition claims provide information about the nutritional composition of the food. For example: 'source of calcium', 'low fat', and 'high fibre' and 'reduced salt'.
Only nutrition claims listed in the Annex to the EU Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 can be made in relation to food and only if the product meets the specific conditions of use for that claim. For example, 'low fat' can only be made on products containing no more than 3g of fat per 100g for solids. Click here for more information link.
Health claimsA health claim is any claim that states, suggests or implies that a relationship exists between a food category, a food or one of its ingredients and health. Only health claims authorized by the relevant authority as listed below are permitted:
Health claims cannot:
Nutrition and health claims are only permitted if the average consumer can be expected to understand the beneficial effects as expressed in the claim. As mentioned above, if general wellbeing claims are used (such as 'superfoods', ‘good for you’), then these must be accompanied by a specific health claim, i.e., you need to explain why it is considered a 'superfood'. For example, Mackerel, as part of a healthy balanced diet, can be considered a superfood because it is a source of Omega-3 fatty acids. The claim could therefore state: 'Omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA contribute to normal heart function' however, should be accompanied by explaining where the Omega 3 comes from 'contains x mg of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid per 100 g'. To use this health claim, you also need to tell the customer that the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 250mg EPA and DHA.
Further detailed explanation on labeling for detail page and the product label:Mandatory food information should be present on the detail page in either text or
image form. Where images are used to convey mandatory information, ensure the main
images (highlighted in CAPS) are present and tagged with the correct label, for
example, INGR for an ingredients image:
The inventory file templates (flat files) for ‘Food and Beverages’ and ‘Health and Personal Care’ contain specific attributes that should be used to provide (additional) food information. Please use the latest version of the inventory file template for “Food and Beverages” or “Health and Personal Care” to ensure information provided is the most up-to-date. For example for “Dietary Supplements” products, please use the flat file for “Health and Personal Care” and choose the feed_product_type “dietary supplements”. You can download the latest version of the complete file here.
Please note that you are solely responsible for ensuring that your offers meet the legal requirements. Amazon cannot provide any legal advice. If you are unsure about the information that you need to provide for your product, or if you have any other questions about the legal requirements, we strongly recommend that you seek independent legal advice. Please also note that in addition to the Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011, (as retained and amended by UK law), labelling requirements from other regulation could apply to your product.
Information on food products must always be provided in the language of the marketplace where the product is offered. In general, information on the product detail page must match information on the product packaging completely, in order to be compliant.
Subject | Field Name | Notes or example* |
---|---|---|
Description of food item | item_type_name |
Certain foods have legal names that must be used if the product meets certain standards (e.g. jam). In other instances, a customary name (e.g. Bakewell tart) can be used. The legal name must include or be accompanied by information as to its physical condition. For example: powdered, refrozen, freeze-dried, quick-frozen, concentrated or smoked. It should also state if it has been subject to physical processes such as irradiation, pasteurization etc. Failing this, a descriptive name (e.g. pasta in tomato sauce) must be used. Please find below examples for the three types of item type names that can be used:
|
List of ingredients | ingredients |
List of ingredients in descending order of their amount. Allergens (see complete list in Annex II of the Regulation here ) need to be written in CAPITAL LETTERS e.g. “Sugar, Palm Oil, HAZELNUTS (13%), Fat-Reduced Cocoa (7.4%), Skimmed MILK Powder (6.6%), Whey Powder (MILK), Emulsifier: Lecithin (SOY), Vanillin” |
Label language | language_value | Specify the supported languages for the label, or languages of included manual or documentation e.g. “English” |
Nutritional information Following values should always be part of a mandatory nutritional declaration; does not apply to food supplements and natural mineral water |
serving_size |
The serving size on which the specified nutritional information is based. The serving size is set to a 100 ml liquids (e.g. coke or pasta sauce) and 100g for all solid products (e.g. chocolate, pasta and bread). For 100 ml or 100 g:
|
energy_content_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of energy in KJ per provided serving size here. Energy in kcal will be calculated and shown on detail page automatically For 2500 kJ:
|
|
total_fat_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of total fat in grams per provided serving size here. For 12 g:
|
|
saturated_fat_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of saturated fatty acids in grams per provided serving size here. For 11 g:
|
|
total_carbohydrate_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of carbohydrates in grams per provided serving size here. For 20 g:
|
|
sugars_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of sugars in grams per provided serving size here. For 17 g:
|
|
protein_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of proteins in grams per provided serving size here. For 8 g:
|
|
salt_per_serving_string |
Add the amount of salt in grams per provided serving size here. This is not the amount of sodium For 0,1 g:
|
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Net quantity | solid_net_weight |
This attribute may be used to indicate the drained weight. If a product is present in a liquid medium (e.g. peaches in syrup), which isn’t part of the product itself, then this attribute is mandatory to fill in. Example: For 50 g or 50 kg:
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item_display_weight The QUID (Quantitative Ingredient Declaration) Tells a consumer the percentage of particular ingredients contained in a food product. |
Enter the item display weight here, if applicable.You may be required by law to complete this field. You must show a QUID if:
Example: For 200 ml or 200 l:
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item_display_volume |
Enter the item display volume here, if applicable. You may be required to complete this field for legal reasons. Example: For 200 ml or 200 l:
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Special instructions for storage and use | storage_instructions |
This is a mandatory requirement if there are any special conditions without which the product cannot be properly stored (example,. instructions for reduced shelf life after opening). Storage statements are required if the durability date is listed as 'use by'. Example, "Store in a cool place after opening", “Keep refrigerated”, "Once opened, store in a cool, dry place" |
use_by_recommendation |
If there are special instructions connected to the minimum durability date (example, conditions for storage to meet the labelled best before date) they should be added here. Example, "One week after opening", “at +4 to +7 °C” |
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serving_recommendation |
Add special serving recommendation here. Example, "Serve at room temperature" |
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Ingredients and additives that may trigger allergies or intolerance | allergen_information |
This advice is mandatory if a product contains allergens, but a list of ingredients is not required Example, contains “sulphites” (for wine), example: "milk" |
special_ingredients |
This is mandatory if a product contains food additives, but an ingredient list is not present Example, “Contains Preservatives” |
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Precaution statements | safety_warning |
If there are any warnings about the product without which the consumer could possibly be harmed, this precaution statement becomes a mandatory labelling element. Example, "Pressurised container. Do not place in direct sunlight." “Not suitable for infants younger than 12 months old” “High caffeine content. Not recommended for children or pregnant or breast-feeding women” |
Directions for use | Directions |
The directions for use are mandatory if the product cannot be consumed without preparation. Example, "Place the spaghetti in boiling water and cook for approx. 12 minutes, stirring continuously." |
Name and address of the food business operator | manufacturer_contact_information |
Provide the Name and business address of the operator under whose name the food is marketed, or where not established in the EU, the importer Example, Structure of this labelling element: name, street, postcode, city, country (e.g. Example GmbH, Examplestreet 1-2,10555 Berlin, Germany) |
Country of origin or manufacture | country_of_origin |
This is the country where the product originates from, e.g. where a plant was produced or harvested, an animal was raised and slaughtered, fish caught. Example: Brazil |
country_string |
This is the country where the product was processed / produced / packaged. No need for an indication if the country of origin and the processing country are identical. Example: Country of origin for chicken is “Brazil”, but the processing country could be “Germany” (e.g. cutting of the meat) |
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primary_ingredient_country_of_origin |
If there is an indication of the country of origin on the detail page, but the country of origin of the primary ingredient (=main ingredient) differs, please add the country for the primary ingredient here. Example: Country of origin for yoghurt is “Germany”, but the milk originates from “France” |
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primary_ingredient_location_produced | If there is an indication of the country of processing on the detail page, but the country of processing of the primary ingredient (=main ingredient) differs, please add the country for the primary ingredient here | |
Details of the alcohol content for beverages with more than 1.2% alcoholic strength by volume | alcohol_content |
Is a mandatory labelling element for all beverages with alcohol content more than 1.2 % vol. Example, for 12 % vol.:
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*Please note that for some attributes only specific values can be used
Please note that you are solely responsible for ensuring that your offers meet the legal requirements. Amazon cannot provide any legal advice. If you are unsure about the information that you need to provide for your product, or if you have any other questions about the legal requirements, we strongly recommend that you seek independent legal advice.
Additional information for the Nutritional declarationIn addition to the mandatory nutrition declaration mentioned, other nutrients may be included, such as vitamins and minerals. The nutrient should always be accompanied by the percentage of the Nutrient Reference Value (%NRV). Vitamins and minerals can only be listed, if present in a significant amount. Only Vitamin and Mineral substances listed in the Directive 2002/46/EC and amendments thereof can be used in the manufacture of food supplements.
A significant amount is defined as:
See the table below for an overview of the attributes that can be added to the nutritional values:
Subject | Field Name | Notes or examples |
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Monounsaturated Fat | monounsaturated_fat_per_serving_string | The amount of mono-unsaturated fat in grams per serving size. |
Polyunsaturated Fat | polyunsaturated_fat_per_serving_string | The amount of poly-unsaturated fat in grams per serving size. |
Polyols | sugar_alcohols_per_serving_string | The amount of polyols in grams per serving size. |
Starch | starch_per_serving_string | The amount of starch in grams per serving size. |
Dietary Fibre | dietary_fibre_per_serving_string | The amount of dietary fibre in grams per serving size in grams. |
Vitamin A | vitamin_a_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin A in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin A" is provided in micrograms. |
Vitamin D | vitamin_d_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin D in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin D" is provided in micrograms. |
Vitamin E | vitamin_e_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin E in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin E" is provided in milligrams. |
Vitamin K | vitamin_k_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin K in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin K" is provided in micrograms. |
Vitamin C | vitamin_c_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin C in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin C" is provided in milligrams. |
Thiamin | thiamin_per_serving_string | The amount of thiamin in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Thiamin" is provided in milligrams. |
Riboflavin | vitamin_b2_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin B2 in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin B2" is provided in milligrams. |
Niacin | niacin_per_serving_string | The amount of niacin in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Niacin" is provided in milligrams. |
Vitamine B6 | vitamin_b6_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin B6 in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin B6" is provided in micrograms. |
Folic Acid | folic_acid_per_serving_string | The amount of folic acid in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Folic Acid" is provided in micrograms. |
Vitamin b12 | vitamin_b12_per_serving_string | The amount of vitamin B12 in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Vitamin B12" is provided in micrograms. |
Biotin | biotin_per_serving_string | The amount of biotin in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Biotin" is provided in micrograms. |
Pantothenic Acid | pantothenic_acid_per_serving_string | The amount of pantothenic acid in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Pantothenic Acid" is provided in milligrams. |
Potassium | potassium_per_serving_string | The amount of potassium in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Potassium" is provided in milligrams. |
Chloride | chloride_per_serving_string | The amount of chloride in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Chloride" is provided in milligrams. |
Calcium | calcium_per_serving_string | The amount of calcium in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Calcium" is provided in milligrams. |
Phosphorus | phosphorus_per_serving_string | The amount of phosphorus in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Phosphorus" is provided in milligrams. |
Magnesium | magnesium_per_serving_string | The amount of magnesium in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Magnesium" is provided in milligrams. |
Iron | iron_per_serving_string | The amount of iron in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Iron" is provided in milligrams. |
Zinc | zinc_per_serving_string | The amount of zinc in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Zinc" is provided in milligrams. |
Copper | copper_per_serving_string | The amount of copper in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Copper" is provided in milligrams. |
Manganese | manganese_per_serving_string | The amount of manganese in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Manganese" is provided in milligrams. |
Fluoride | fluoride_per_serving_string | The amount of fluoride in milligrams per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Fluoride" is provided in milligrams. |
Selenium | selenium_per_serving_string | The amount of selenium in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Selenium" is provided in micrograms. |
Chromium | chromium_per_serving_string | The amount of chromium in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Chromium" is provided in micrograms. |
Molybdenum | molybdenum_per_serving_string | The amount of molybdenum in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Molybdenum" is provided in micrograms. |
Iodine | iodine_per_serving_string | The amount of iodine in micrograms per serving size. The percentage of daily requirement will be calculated automatically and displayed on the detail page, if "Iodine" is provided in micrograms. |
Northern Ireland
Please note that different rules will apply in Northern Ireland (NI) from 1 January 2021 as a result of the Northern Ireland Protocol. In particular:
The relevant authority for authorizing health claims in Northern Ireland is the Department of Health.
BREXIT: UK Government Guidance
The UK Government has released guidance on selling products in GB and NI from 1 January 2021. We encourage you to visit the following UK government website for guidance on changes that may affect you from 1 January 2021: The UK transition
For more information, refer to:
Example of external service providers:
Name of the company | Marketplaces covered | Website | contact information |
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Ashbury Labelling | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | http://www.ashburylabelling.co.uk/ | amazon.sellers@ashburylabelling.co.uk |
Bilacon/Tentamus | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | https://www.tentamus.com/ | labelling@tentamus.com |
Campden BRI | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | https://www.campdenbri.co.uk/ | |
Eurofins | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | labelling@eurofins.com | |
Intertek | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | http://www.intertek.com | |
Leatherhead | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | http://www.intertek.com | |
SGS | UK, DE, FR, IT, ES | https://www.sgs.com/ |
As well as the “Main Image” which displays the front side of the product, you can upload 8 additional images to display alternative views of the product packaging.
The “serving_size” attribute currently only supports weight values but no values such as “capsules” or “tablespoons” etc. We recommend that you add such information to the product_description field or upload additional images that show the information printed on the product packaging.
In older versions of the inventory file templates (flat files), nutrition fact attributes were in numeric format. With the latest update (version 14.1202), existing attributes have been changed and new attributes have been added in string-format. E.g. protein_per_serving“ has changed to protein_per_serving_string”. The new string attributes support symbols such as “>” and “<” that you may need to use define nutrition facts.
As per the new legislation, nutrition facts need to be provided in pre-defined units of measure, if applicable. For example, protein must be provided in grams. Please enter only the amount and, if applicable, a pre-sign such as “<”. "Grams" will be added automatically on the product detail page.
If you want to highlight allergens in the ingredients list, we recommend that you use capital letters, for example, “MILK”. Please do not use HTML or other formatting as it cannot be processed.