Nutritional labeling is the mandatory declaration of energy value and nutrient content on food packaging, governed by EU Regulation 1169/2011 (Food Information to Consumers). It ensures consumers can make informed dietary choices and is required for all pre-packed foods in the EU. Ovalab provides complete nutritional compound testing to help food manufacturers comply with EU labeling requirements.
Key Facts About Nutritional Labeling (EU Regulation 1169/2011)
- Mandatory nutrients (Article 30): Energy value, fat, saturates, carbohydrate, sugars, protein, and salt must be declared per 100 g or 100 ml.
- Reference intakes (Annex XIII, Part B): Energy 8,400 kJ / 2,000 kcal; total fat 70 g; saturates 20 g; carbohydrate 260 g; sugars 90 g; protein 50 g; salt 6 g.
- Voluntary nutrients: Mono-/poly-unsaturated fats, polyols, starch, dietary fibre, and vitamins/minerals (Annex XIII) may be added voluntarily.
- Significant amount threshold: Vitamins and minerals must constitute ≥ 15% NRV per 100 g (or 7.5% per 100 ml for beverages) to be declared.
- Tolerances: The European Commission guidance (2012) defines acceptable tolerances for declared nutrient values based on analytical results.
Testing Methods at Ovalab
Ovalab performs the full range of analyses for EU nutritional labeling under ISO/IEC 17025:2018 accreditation (ČIA, Certificate 537/2025). Our laboratory determines energy value, fatty acid profiles, sugars, protein (Kjeldahl), dietary fibre, salt (sodium), and minerals using validated methods including HPLC, GC-FID, and Kjeldahl digestion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which nutrients must be declared under EU Regulation 1169/2011?
The mandatory nutrition declaration includes energy value, fat, saturated fatty acids, carbohydrate, sugars, protein, and salt, expressed per 100 g or 100 ml.
Are there tolerances for declared nutritional values?
Yes. The European Commission’s 2012 guidance document specifies acceptable tolerances between declared and analytically determined values, varying by nutrient and whether it is naturally occurring or added.
When is nutritional labeling not required?
Exemptions exist for unprocessed single-ingredient products, water, herbs, spices, salt, sweeteners, and foods in packaging with the largest surface below 25 cm² (Regulation 1169/2011, Annex V).
How long does a full nutritional analysis take at Ovalab?
A complete nutritional labeling analysis typically takes 5–10 working days, depending on the product matrix and number of parameters tested.
Can Ovalab help with nutritional claims like 'low fat' or 'high protein'?
Yes. Nutritional and health claims are regulated by EU Regulation 1924/2006. Ovalab’s analytical results provide verified data to substantiate claims such as ‘source of fibre,’ ‘high protein,’ or ‘low sugar.’