We may think we already have a handle on label discipline and yet the reality
under inspection does not always bear this out. Specifically with allergens,
food traceability and labelling is now firmly in the spotlight as the new
labelling regulations, established in November 2004 and enforced as of last year
are set to hit home.

A FATAL ERROR?

The impact of incorrect labelling is obvious. One error on a label that allows
an undisclosed nut ingredient to cause a fatal allergic reaction would be tragic
for the victim and could financially close the manufacturer down. It is not just
the accuracy pf the data that there should be concern, but the labels and
associated fixings and adhesives must be sufficiently robust to withstand
refrigeration if necessary, and must retain their identity and clarity of
information through to point of use.

Typical problems include inadequate labelling, wrong label construction,
incorrect inks and poor label fixing, gluing or tying methods.

To that we can add in attention by technicians on goods inward lines and in the
warehouse, especially with reworked and quarantined goods.

All these issues however can be overcome through using professional
and machinery
or software that is readily available. This can be coupled with a strong regime
of enforced procedural standards, or automated systems that remove the potential
for human error.

PROSECUTION INEVITABLE

The truth is that all manufacturers have label issues to one degree or another.
The costs of this problem vary, and thankfully few issues end up in the public
domain, being mostly caught "in-house" but nevertheless the costs of lost
downtime, product recall, re-labelling and stock control are vast yet this need
not be so!

Modern , technology and
management systems are changing the efficiency of labelling management companies
must change too. Better diligence and more investment in labelling accuracy is
essential. The new legislation will make prosecution inevitable when an allergy
sufferer next falls prey to a product label error. Ask yourself when did you
last have a problem in labels? More importantly when will you next have a
problem with labelling and will you be able to afford it?