Some manufacturers of consumer goods don’t pay enough attention to one important aspect of their final products, and that is the products’ labels.
Why is product labeling important?
Product labels are not merely stickers on containers. They can serve various purposes, such as:
To identify what the product is
A product label informs consumers what the product is and what it does, enabling them to know exactly what they are purchasing and how it can help them. For example, buyers can refer to a shampoo bottle’s label to distinguish among the various product variants, such as those that get rid of dandruff, lock in moisture, or minimize frizz, and pick the right one for their particular needs.
To market the product
A well-designed label can grab people’s attention and help the product stand out on store shelves. It can also improve recall. For instance, if consumers first encounter the product outside of a store, such as in an online or a print advertisement, the product’s label can help them remember the product when they see it later on while they’re shopping.Â
Having an attractive label is especially important when there are no product samples available since consumers would likely judge the product by its label. If the label looks poorly made, then shoppers may think the product is of poor quality as well. In other words, the label can greatly influence people’s decision of whether to buy that product.Â
For existing customers, the label helps them easily find the product they want among the vast assortment of products on store shelves.Â
Finally, if the label contains certain logos, colors, or brand marks, then people can easily identify the brand or company behind that product. For example, all Dove, Rexona, and Vaseline products have labels that display the Unilever logo. A positive brand association may be enough to convince customers to purchase the product.Â
To highlight promotions
Businesses can use product labels to communicate ongoing promotions that may encourage people to buy the product right away. Examples of promotional messages on labels include:
- Brand new or improved
- Discounted prices, coupons, or bundling (e.g., buy 1 get 1)
- Limited offer
- Ongoing contest, raffle, or giveaway
- Included in rewards program
To provide product usage, storage, or disposal instructions
Labels can help consumers use the product effectively and safely. Beauty product labels, for example, typically display instructions on how much product to use, how to apply it, and how often. Food product labels, on the other hand, usually show the “best before” or expiration dates to let consumers know when the product is no longer ideal or safe to eat.Â
Proper storage instructions are particularly important for products that require special storage conditions to maintain their quality or prevent them from spoiling. For instance, some medicines need to be kept refrigerated, while others should be kept in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight.
Labels can also inform people how to properly dispose of a product and its packaging. For example, information on how to dispose batteries and electronic devices can be displayed on the product label. This ensures that these products are thrown away or recycled properly, which is especially important since they contain chemicals that can harm the environment.
To display mandatory information
As required by law, the labels of some products must include certain types of information, such as:
- Identity of the product (i.e., product name)
- Net quantity of contents (i.e., product’s weight or volume)
- Ingredients
- Nutritional information
- Country of origin (e.g., “Product of USA”)
- Name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor
- Proof of authenticity
- Compliance certifications with quality standards and environmental regulationsÂ
- Warnings about potential hazards
This mandatory information helps people make informed decisions about the products they buy. For example, people with allergies can check the ingredients list to see if a product contains any allergens like soy, nuts, or gluten. Consumers can also look at the label to determine whether the product has associated health warnings, such as those found in tobacco and alcoholic products, or if the product is unsuitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.Â
Warnings about potential hazards of toxic substances, such as those in pesticides and cleaning products, can also help people avoid potential injuries and know what to do in case of an emergency.Â
Here are examples of disclaimers and warning statements that can be found on some product labels:
- Allergy advice: This product contains peanuts and may contain traces of other nuts and seeds.Â
- This product contains nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive chemical.Â
- These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
- Warning! Choking hazard — Small parts not for children under three years.Â
- Avoid getting the product directly into your eyes. If this happens, rinse immediately.Â
- If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
By including all the required information on a product label, companies can protect themselves from liability and avoid costly fines and legal problems in case customers misuse the product.
How can you ensure proper product labeling?
Product labeling is a complex process that involves many steps, from designing the label to applying it to the finished product. To ensure your labels are applied correctly and meet all the required standards, it is best to partner with a reliable labeling services provider like Pro-Motion Industries.Â
For over 25 years, we have been helping New Jersey businesses with their labeling requirements. We can also do the same for you. Our team of experts can guide you in choosing the right label for your product that meets both your functional and budgetary needs. Whatever the shape, size, and material of your products, we can label them for you.Â
We use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure high-quality label application, guaranteeing that your products look attractive and stay that way, even when exposed to the elements. We also have a rigorous quality control system: we hand-inspect every item that comes off the production line to ensure consistent label quality. When you work with us, we’ll go the extra mile to meet your production timelines and even exceed your expectations. Get in touch with us today at 856-809-0040.Â