Ordering products online is very popular among consumers. Food products are also increasingly being sold online. But what information are you required to include on your online store? And what do you need to keep in mind? When selling food products online, you must comply with Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers. Consumers who purchase the products must have access to product information before making a purchase decision. There are a number of factors you need to consider.
Article 14 of Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011 sets out requirements for food products offered for sale using means of distance communication. A means of distance communication is defined as:“any means that, without the simultaneous physical presence of the supplier and the consumer, can be used to conclude a contract between these parties.”
An online store falls under this definition. For prepackaged foods offered for sale through an online store, the following applies:
“the mandatory food information, with the exception of the information specified in Article 9(1)(f), must be available before the purchase takes place and must appear on the material supporting the distance sale or be provided through other appropriate means clearly indicated by the food business operator. When other appropriate means are used, the mandatory food information shall be provided without the food business operator charging consumers any additional costs.”
This means that all mandatory information, such as the name, ingredients, allergens, and nutritional values, must be listed on the website. The best-by date does not need to be available prior to purchase. Article 12, paragraph 1 states that mandatory food information must be available and easily accessible. Therefore, ensure that the information is easy for consumers to find and free of charge. In addition, all mandatory information, including the best-by date, must be available upon delivery.
Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011 stipulates that food information must not be misleading. Here, “food information” refers not only to the information on the label but also to information made available through other means, such as modern technological tools. It is therefore important that the website does not contain any misleading information.
Claims such as:“This product helps with…,”“is rich in…,” or“light” must comply with the provisions of Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 on nutrition and health claims made on foods. This regulation applies to nutrition and health claims made in commercial communications. This may include the labeling or presentation of the food product, as well as advertising created for that purpose. Ensure that only authorized claims are listed on the online store.
Not sure if your online store complies? Do you have questions about how to apply the legislation? Our team of Labeling Specialists is ready to help you with expert advice, so you can ensure your products carry accurate and honest information.
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