The FDA has issued three guidance documents to help food manufacturers, retailers, and restaurants meet consumers’ food needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, reports Food Business News. The documents temporarily relax certain food labeling rules that could slow down the supply chain and limit consumer access to food.
The first document, issued March 26, relaxes nutrition labeling rules for restaurants seeking to sell packaged food to consumers, food manufacturers with inventory intended for foodservice, and manufacturers when retail packaging for certain foods is unavailable. In this case, the FDA said it won’t object if the packaged food lacks a Nutrition Facts Label, provided no nutrition claims are made.
The second document deals with menu labeling rules for foodservice outlets as they transition from in-store dining to takeout. “To provide flexibility to these chains covered by menu labeling requirements, FDA will not object if establishments do not meet menu labeling requirements during this public health emergency,” the agency said.
The third document gives flexibility regarding packaging and labeling requirements for shell eggs. The FDA said it does not intend to object to the sale by retail food establishments of shell eggs in cartons or flats without labels, providing the retail food establishment displays clearly at the point of sale a statement of identity; the name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor; and safe handling instructions for shell eggs. In addition, if shell eggs from multiple suppliers are offered for sale at the same time and in the same location, it must be clear to consumers which point of sale labeling applies to which of the shell eggs that are offered for sale. In addition, there must be no nutrition claims at the point of purchase for the shell eggs. Full Story
Related: FDA Shifts to Remote FSVP Inspections; USDA Defines Essential Services.
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