FDA temporarily relaxing egg labeling requirements

by | Apr 7, 2020 | 5 Ag Stories, News

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is relaxing egg labeling and packaging requirements to meet consumer demands. Generally, egg cartons must include a statement of identity, the name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer or distributor, nutrition labeling, the net quality of contents and safe handling instructions. However, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, consumer demand for shell eggs has increased. Additional eggs for consumers are available, but appropriately labeled retail packaging is not available for all such eggs.

To meet the increased demand for shell eggs in light of the limited availability of retail packaging, the FDA is providing temporary flexibility regarding certain packaging and labeling requirements so the industry can meet the increased consumer demand. FDA will allow egg sales without labels, but rather a sign or tag affixed to the product containing certain label requirements. The policy is intended to remain in effect only for the duration of the public health emergency related to COVID-19 declared by the Department of Health and Human Services.