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Packaging and Labeling: What U.S. Exporters Need to Know
When it comes to exporting U.S. food products, what’s on the outside matters just as much as what’s on the inside. In today’s global marketplace, packaging and labeling are not just tools for brand expression, they are gatekeepers to international shelf space. As international markets continue to evolve, one critical area where U.S. food and agricultural exporters must stay vigilant is packaging and labeling compliance. Regulations governing these areas vary widely by country and product category, making it essential for exporters to understand and address the complexities before products ever reach foreign shelves.
Whether you’re exploring new market opportunities or maintaining an established presence abroad, navigating these requirements is key to protecting your brand reputation and avoiding costly delays or rejections at the border.
UNDERSTANDING GLOBAL PACKAGING AND LABELING REGULATIONS
Packaging and labeling regulations are designed to protect consumers, promote fair trade practices, and ensure that products meet the safety and information standards of each importing country. While that mission is clear, the regulations themselves are anything but simple.
Specialty Food Buyers Mission at the Winter Fancy Food Show – Las Vegas, Nevada
Exporters must consider a wide range of factors, including:
Mandatory Product Information: Requirements often include country of origin, net weight, nutritional facts, ingredient declarations, expiration dates, and allergen warnings.
Specific Markings and Certifications: Certain markets require specific compliance marks, such as the Conformité Européenne (CE) marking in the European Union, Halal or Kosher certifications, or sustainability indicators.
Language Requirements: Many countries require that product labels be provided in the official language(s) of the market, sometimes with specific phrasing or terminology.
U.S. companies must be prepared to regularly revise packaging and labeling to keep pace with changes in consumer protection laws, import regulations, and shifting cultural preferences.
Cultural Sensitivities and Imagery Restrictions: Some markets place restrictions on certain images, colors, or marketing claims based on cultural standards or regulatory guidelines.
Adding to the challenge, these regulations are not static. They evolve rapidly, with updates that can significantly impact packaging compliance from year to year. U.S. companies must be prepared to regularly revise packaging and labeling to keep pace with changes in consumer protection laws, import regulations, and shifting cultural preferences.
RECENT GLOBAL DEVELOPMENTS IN PACKAGING AND LABELING REGULATIONS
Staying informed about international regulatory changes is crucial for exporters. Here are some notable recent updates:
Canada: Front-of-Package Nutrition Labeling
Health Canada has introduced mandatory front-of-package (FOP) nutrition symbols for prepackaged foods high in saturated fat, sugars, or sodium. These black-and-white symbols, featuring a magnifying glass icon, aim to help consumers make informed choices. The regulation comes into effect on January 1, 2026, with specific requirements for symbol placement, size, and bilingual presentation.
China: Overhaul of Food Labeling Standards
On March 27, 2025, China released revised standards governing food labeling, including the “Food Labeling Supervision and Administration Measures” and the “National Food Safety Standard General Rules for Prepackaged Food Labels (GB 7718-2025).” Key changes include stricter rules on labeling language, clearer expiry date formats, expanded allergen disclosures, and the introduction of digital labeling tools. These regulations will take effect on March 16, 2027.
MANAGING THE COST OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE BRANDED PROGRAM
Updating packaging and labeling for global markets isn’t just time-consuming, it can also be expensive. From
translation and regulatory reviews to new graphic designs and production runs, the costs can add up quickly.
That’s where Food Export’s Branded Program can provide critical support. The Branded Program offers eligible suppliers up to 50% reimbursement on costs associated with designing and producing marketcompliant packaging and labels.
Covered expenses include:
• Translation services and language compliance
• Graphic design and regulatory review
• Printing plates and production costs
• Labor related to packaging updates
Participants may be reimbursed for up to a one-year supply of modified packaging per SKU, per market, helping to ease the financial burden of staying compliant while remaining competitive in international markets.
STAY AHEAD OF MARKET CHANGES
In today’s fast-changing regulatory landscape, proactive packaging and labeling management is more than a compliance issue, it’s a competitive advantage. Food Export’s resources, including the Branded Program, help U.S. suppliers stay ahead of market requirements and confidently expand into new markets with packaging that meets both legal and consumer expectations.
Learn more about how the Branded Program can help you stay ahead of trends and regulations and support your export growth!
Food Export’s Branded Program
offers eligible suppliers up to 50% reimbursement on costs associated with designing and producing market-compliant packaging and labels.
Training Webinars
Stay informed with our insightful webinars from Food Export Association of the Midwest USA and Food Export USA–Northeast for the latest market updates and trade strategies. Watch for announcements of upcoming webinars and browse our library of past webinars at www.foodexport.org
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Success Stories
Packaging as a Catalyst for Export Growth
In the competitive landscape of global food exports, packaging and labeling are more than just compliance requirements, they’re strategic tools that can drive brand recognition and market expansion. This month, we spotlight two U.S. companies that leveraged innovative packaging solutions to enhance their international presence.
PACKAGING REFRESH HELPS VENUS WAFERS
CRACK OPEN NEW EXPORT MARKETS
Venus Wafers, a Massachusetts-based familyowned company, has leveraged strategic packaging updates and consistent participation in Food Export–Northeast’s Branded Program to enhance its international appeal. In 2023, these efforts led to $70,000 in immediate export sales and $155,000 in projected sales, including first-time market entries into Australia and the Cayman Islands. The company’s refreshed packaging played a pivotal role in attracting 24 new foreign buyer contacts and establishing four new distributorships, underscoring the impact of tailored packaging in global market expansion. Learn more about their Branded Program journey.
STRATEGIC PACKAGING ENHANCES OCEAN’S BALANCE’S INTERNATIONAL REACH
Ocean’s Balance, a Maine-based seaweed supplier, utilized Food Export–Northeast’s Branded Program to adapt its packaging and labeling for international markets. In 2023, these efforts contributed to over $300,000 in sales to Canada and over $150,000 to China. With 75 new foreign buyer contacts and 24 established distributors, the company projects over $900,000 in sales to these markets over the next twelve months. Read the full Ocean’s Balance success story.
$591.4 million total U.S. exports of processed foods to Chile
$18.2 billion
estimated total retail sales in the packaged food market in 2023
1st largestmarket
in South America for U.S. processed food product exports
Chile is a high-income country and serves as a well-positioned gateway to other South American markets.
U.S. brands are regarded as high-quality, and many U.S. brands are well-known and present in the market.
Explore the Chilean Market further in our full market profile.
UPCOMING EVENT IN SANTIAGO, CHILE
Product Showcase at ESPACIO 2025
September 30 – October 2, 2025
Early Registration: August 12, 2025 – $100
Ready Meals Sweet Spreads
Edible Oils Sauces, Dips & Condiments
Japan
3rd largest
U.S. export market for processed foods
$2.6 billion in U.S. processed food exports to Japan in 2023
123.1 million total population
3rd largest packaged food market in the world
U.S. products have a quality reputation and are generally priced lower than domestic Japanese products
ProcessedVegetables&Pulses
Prepared/Preserved
ProcessedVegetables&Pulses
Condiments, Sauces, Jams & Jellies
Food Preparations
ProcessedVegetables&Pulses
TOP PROCESSED FOODS EXPORTED TO JAPAN IN 2023
Snack Foods
Processed Vegetables and Pulses
Processed/ Prepared Dairy Products
Prepared/Preserved
Prepared/Preserved
ProcessedVegetables&Pulses
Prepared/ Preserved Seafood
Food Preparations
Prepared/Preserved
Food Preparations and Ingredients
Chocolate & Confectionery
Processed/PreparedDairyProducts
Prepared/ Preserved Meats
Prepared/Preserved Seafood
Food Preparations &
Dairy Products
Prepared/Preserved
AlcoholicBeverages
Alcoholic Beverages Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Oilseeds
Prepared/Preserved
Food Preparations & Ingredients
Processed/PreparedDairyProducts
Non-AlcoholicBeverages
Prepared/Preserved Meats
Processed/PreparedDairyProducts
AlcoholicBeverages
Learn more about opportunities in the Japan market in our full market profile.
Fats & Oils
Seafood and Aquatic Food
AlcoholicBeverages
UPCOMING EVENT IN TOKYO, JAPAN
October 27-28, 2025
Processed/PreparedDairyProducts
Non-AlcoholicBeverages
Focused Trade Mission to Japan for Retail and Food Service
Early Registration: June 25, 2025 – $425
SyrupsandSweeteners
Soups
AlcoholicBeverages
Non-AlcoholicBeverages
Fats & Oils
Food Preparations
Prepared/Preserved
Spain
$281.9 million in U.S. processed food exports to Spain in 2023 2.5% Increase in GDP in 2023
23.2% increase in retail sales since 2019
$65.7 billion estimated in sales of packaged food products by 2028
Spanish consumers are increasingly open to new products. The U.S. is among the favorite destination for Spanish travelers outside the EU, increasing the popularity and interest in U.S. food products.
Prepared/Preserved
Food Preparations & Ingredients
Processed/Prepared
Prepared/Preserved Meats
PROJECTED HIGH GROWTH PRODUCTS
Alcoholic Beverages
Prepared/Preserved
Alcoholic Beverages
Food Preparations
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic Beverages Food Preparations and Ingredients Prepared/ Preserved Seafood
Fats & Oils
Fats & Oils
Processed Vegetables and Pulses
Prepared/Preserved Processed/Prepared
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Syrups and Sweeteners
Processed Vegetables
Syrups and Sweeteners
Discover more about the Spanish market including overviews about the retail, foodservice, and food-processing sectors.
Alcoholic Beverages
Condiments, Sauces,
Prepared/Preserved
Non-Alcoholic
Condiments, Sauces, Jams Processed
From the Field
Stay up to date with monthly blog updates from our global network of In-Market Representatives about what’s going on in the markets around the world.
Looking for your next export opportunity? April’s global market insights reveal rising demand for premium U.S. products across Brazil, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, and Taiwan. From Brazil’s booming foodservice sector to Taiwan’s record-breaking beef imports, see where your products could make their next international debut. Read the full report.
Curious about what’s shaping global food trends? From plant-based beverage growth in Guatemala to Japan’s booming health and wellness market,
March’s In-Market Representative Report offers direct insights into what international buyers are looking for—and where U.S. exporters can meet the demand. Get the details!
Global food markets are evolving rapidly, with distinct trends emerging in different regions. South Korea is advancing food labeling practices through digital innovation, improving accessibility and reducing packaging waste with QR code-enabled e-labels. Meanwhile, the UK is experiencing a surge in demand for high-protein products, once niche but now mainstream, as consumers seek healthier options in everything from noodles to chicken. Learn more.
FINAL CALL
Don’t Miss Your Chance to Join the 2025 Summer in the Cities Buyers Mission!
Time is running out to secure your spot at Food Export’s premier international business development event. The final registration deadline is fast approaching for the Summer in the Cities Buyers Mission, taking place across Chicago, IL; Columbus, OH; and Jersey City, NJ.
This mission offers direct access to pre-screened international buyers actively seeking U.S. products – without the distractions of large expos. In 2024, this event facilitated nearly $14 million in immediate sales and $15 million in projected sales through nearly 500 one-on-one meetings.
Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your products, build valuable global partnerships, and position your brand for export success.
The Food Export Podcast
Register now before the deadline closes!
‣ 2025 Summer in the Cities Buyers Mission: Chicago Stop
‣ 2025 Summer in the Cities Buyers Mission: Columbus Stop
‣ 2025 Summer in the Cities Buyers Mission: Jersey City Stop
Join us for a behind-the-scenes preview of the Summer in the Cities Buyers Mission by listening to our podcast
For more information, reach out to your liaison!
Your monthly guide to expanding your knowledge and expertise in food exports!
TUNE IN AND CATCH UP ON THESE MUST-HEAR EPISODES
Jump Into Japan: Trends and Opportunities
In-Market Representative Hisao Fukuda joins us to dive into trends and opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic markets. Tune in for an inside look at what’s driving Japan’s food industry and how U.S. exporters can take advantage of the prospects on the horizon!
Export Readiness Roadmap: Succeed in Global Markets
Want to export your products internationally? Export Readiness Roadmap is here to guide you! In this episode, we break down the essential steps to help you navigate new markets, tackle export challenges, and grow globally.
Let’s Talk Food Exporting: Success, Strategies, and Markets
Explore key markets, emerging opportunities, and practical advice to help businesses navigate the complexities of international trade with Export Education Coordinator Dennis Lynch.
Across the States: Building Export Success
State members Jennifer Kliethermes from the Missouri Department of Agriculture and Bonita Oehlke from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, along with Food Export CCO/Deputy Director Laura England, discuss the different ways Food Export partners with state agencies to benefit U.S. suppliers in our regions.
Stay ahead of the curve, get inspired, and expand your expertise as we bring you the latest insights and knowledge in the world of food exports!
Product Highlights
Spotlight on Beverages
Packaging and labeling play a critical role in the beverage sector, where strict regulations govern everything from ingredient declarations to health claims and alcohol content disclosures. This month, we’re showcasing U.S. beverage products ready to meet these challenges and make a splash in global markets.
Energy Drinks That Power Performance
International markets continue to seek energy drinks with cleaner ingredient profiles, natural caffeine sources, and functional health benefits like added vitamins and adaptogens. U.S. exporters should ensure that packaging clearly discloses caffeine content and health-related claims comply with importing country regulations. Some markets also require specific warning labels related to caffeine and suitability for children or pregnant women.
Mocktails: Sophistication Without the Spirits
The no- and low-alcohol movement is booming globally, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia, where consumers are seeking sophisticated alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages. U.S. suppliers can stand out by offering premium mocktails that highlight natural flavors and health-forward ingredients. Exporters should be aware that some countries regulate non-alcoholic drink labeling similarly to alcoholic beverages, requiring clarity on alcohol content (typically 0.0%) and restrictions
on using terms like “wine” or “spirit” unless qualified. Language compliance and proper nutritional labeling also play a key role in market entry.
Craft Beer & Hard Ciders with Distinct American Flavor
International buyers value the creativity and bold flavors of U.S. craft beers and hard ciders, especially those featuring unique ingredients and sustainability stories. However, exporters should be prepared for complex labeling requirements that vary by country – including mandatory alcohol content declarations, health warnings, and ingredient sourcing transparency. In markets like the EU, allergen labeling and packaging sustainability claims must meet strict verification standards.
Juices, Teas, and Ciders
Demand for wellness beverages remains strong globally, with consumers looking for functional benefits such as immunity support, digestive health, and clean-label formulations. U.S. exporters can capitalize on this demand by highlighting natural ingredients, added nutrients, and low sugar content. Labeling must include clear nutritional information, accurate health claims supported by scientific evidence, and proper language translations. Certifications like USDA Organic or NonGMO can also boost appeal but must comply with local verification rules for market acceptance.
Introducing the Export Navigator Service: Your Personalized Path to Global Markets
Navigating the complexities of international trade can be challenging. The Export Navigator Service offers tailored, 30-minute consultations with seasoned export professionals to address your specific questions and help you chart a successful course into global markets.
EXPORT NAVIGATOR SERVICE IN BRIEF
‣ 30-minute consultation with an export expert.
‣ Answers and feedback to 4 predetermined export questions.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
Personalized Guidance: Receive clear, accurate answers to up to four of your predetermined export questions.
Expertise Across Key Areas: Gain insights into compliance, logistics, market entry strategies, and more.
Focused Support: Whether you're new to exporting or looking to expand, our advisors are here to assist you.
Product Showcase Events
‣ Product Showcase at Pet Fair Asia 2025
Shaghai, China | August 20-24, 2025
RD June 17, 2025 - $100
‣ Product Showcase at Bakery Expopan 2025
Mexico City, Mexico | August 20-23, 2025
RD July 9, 2025 - $100
‣ Product Showcase at Fi Asia 2025
Bangkok, Thailand | September 17-19, 2025
RD July 15, 2025 - $100
‣ Product Showcase at CHFA NOW 2025
Toronto, Canada | September 20-21, 2025
RD July 22, 2025 - $100
Specialized Consultation Topics Include:
• Getting Started: Understand the basics of exporting and develop your export plan.
• Documentation: Learn about essential export documents and their proper usage.
• Finance: Explore pricing strategies, Incoterms, and payment methods.
• Legal: Navigate contracts, regulations, and legal considerations.
• Market & Product Research: Identify suitable markets and understand consumer preferences.
• Packaging & Labeling: Ensure your products meet international packaging and labeling requirements.
• Regulatory: Comply with foreign regulations and obtain necessary certifications.
• Shipping & Logistics: Plan efficient and compliant international shipments.
GET STARTED TODAY
Embark on your export journey with confidence. Schedule your Export Navigator consultation now and take the first step toward expanding your business globally.
RD Registration Deadline
‣ Product Showcase at ESPACIO 2025
Santiago, Chile | September 30-October 2, 2025
RD August 12, 2025 - $100
‣ Product Showcase at Pet Fair Southeast Asia
Bangkok, Thailand | October 29-31, 2025
RD September 16, 2025 - $100
‣ Product Showcase at Saudi HORECA 2025
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia | December 15-17, 2025
RD October 14, 2025 - $100
Product Showcases
Showcase your company and products at international trade shows
Showcase your products at different shows around the world! Use our Product Showcase service as a stepping stone into a new market.
Services Provided:
Virtual pre-show briefing with In-Market Representatives
Samples & literature displayed in the booth & shared with key prospects
One-page post-show report with a trade contact list
Shipping instructions for sending product samples to the show
Example of a Product Showcase:
Curious about what goes into a Product Showcase? Head over to our YouTube channel for an inside look at how we will highlight your products: https://youtu.be/GZVHHF-RnZA?si=kZFq5e7pwQ3W9Rhn
https://www.foodexport.org/ourprograms/market-entry/productshowcases/
Cindy Curtis IA, IN, MI, MO, OK 312 334 9229, ccurtis@foodexport org
Daniel Griffith KS, MN, SD, WI 312 334 9217, dgriffith@foodexport org
Matthew Lorenz IL, NE, ND, OH 312 334 9225, mlorenz@foodexport org
F
Deborah Ingravallo NH, NJ, PA 215 599 9747, dingravallo@foodexport org
Grant Behmke CT, ME, MA, RI, VT 215 599 9753, gbehmke@foodexport org
Logan Zweifel DE, NY 215 599 9748, lzweifel@foodexport org
Upcoming Activities
International Marketing Program Coordinator (NE) Rahdia Thornton at Food Show PLUS! at FOODEX Japan 2025 in Tokyo, Japan.
Events & Buyers Missions
Look for Food Export teams at these upcoming global events, where we connect with industry leaders and showcase international trade opportunities.
ERD Early Registration Deadline SRD Standard Registration Deadline
‣ Pet Food Buyers Mission at 2025 Superzoo
Las Vegas, NV | August 12, 2025 ERD June 4, 2025 - $175
‣ Food Show PLUS! at Fi Global South America
Sao Paulo, Brazil | August 26-28, 2025 ERD June 26, 2025 - $250
‣ Focused Trade Mission to Canada for Retail and Food Service
Toronto, Canada | September 3-4, 2025 SRD July 03, 2025 - $625
‣ Food Show PLUS! at China Fisheries Show 2025
Qingado, China | October 29-31, 2025 ERD June 10, 2025 - $375
‣ Bakery Ingredients Buyers Mission at IBIE 2025
Las Vegas, NV | September 13, 2025 ERD July 06, 2025 - $175
‣ Food Show PLUS! at Pets Canada Industry Show
Toronto, Canada | September 17-18, 2025 ERD July 15, 2025 - $250
‣ Value Added Feed Ingredients Buyers Mission at the 2025 World Dairy Expo
Madison, WI | October 1, 2025 ERD July 23, 2025 - $175
If you are a buyer or a seller interested in participating in any of our in-person events and learning more, please contact info@foodexport.org.
Global Food Marketer™
FOOD EXPORT ASSOCIATION OF THE MIDWEST USA® AND FOOD EXPORT USA®–NORTHEAST
We are non-profit organizations comprised of state agricultural promotion agencies that use federal, state, and industry resources to promote the export of Midwestern and Northeastern food and agricultural products.
Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast administer many services through Market Access Program (MAP) funding from the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the USDA.
Brendan Wilson
Chief Executive Officer/Executive Director
Michelle Rogowski
Chief Operating Officer/Deputy Director
Laura England
Chief Communications Officer/Deputy Director
Teresa Miller
Chief Program & Partnership Officer
Gina Donio
Marketing & Communications Manager
FOOD EXPORT ASSOCIATION OF THE MIDWEST (FOOD EXPORT–MIDWEST)
309 W. Washington St., Suite 600 Chicago, IL 60606 USA tel: 312.334.9200 • www.foodexport.org
FOOD EXPORT USA–NORTHEAST (FOOD EXPORT–NORTHEAST) One Penn Center, 1617 JFK Blvd. , Suite 420 Philadelphia, PA 19103 USA tel: 215.829.9111 • www.foodexport.org
Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast administer many services through Market Access Program (MAP) funding from the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the USDA. Persons with disabilities who require reasonable accommodations or alternate means of communication of program information should contact us. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast prohibit discrimination in all their programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, familial/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. To file a program discrimination complaint, go to https:// www.ascr.usda.gov/filing-program-discrimination-complaint-usda-customer. Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast are equal opportunity employers and providers. Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast do not tolerate fraud and are
