Guide to food product label translation

Consumers today are particularly concerned about what they eat, making label translation an essential aspect of food product labeling. Many spend time in the supermarket analyzing every ingredient and piece of information on the packaging, which is why effective labeling is more important than ever.

For starters, pay close attention to these data extracted from a report prepared by Deloitte:

• 76% of consumers say they are more concerned today than they were five years ago about their diet and the way each food product is prepared.
• For 61%, finding healthy ingredients on the label is a priority.
• 80% do not fully understand the information on the packaging.
• 42% consider that they do not have sufficient data on the food they consume.

Basic Features of Proper Food Product Labeling

Food companies cannot act on their own when producing labels or translating them into other languages. They must adhere to European regulations in this matter.

For example, for the labeling of prepackaged foods, this is the minimum information that must be included:

• The name of the product.
• The list of ingredients and allergens.
• The quantitative ratio of the ingredients.
• Nutritional information.
• The net weight.
• The expiration date.
• The name and address of the company.
• The amount of alcohol, if applicable.
• Minimum storage conditions.
• Country of origin.
• Possible preparation instructions.

These standards are mandatory for all packaged foods, but there are some that, by law, must go further. In particular, there are specific requirements related to labeling:

• Sugars.
• Instant coffee.
• Meat and fish.
• Dairy products.
• Jams.
• Honey.
• Juices.
• Oils and fats.
• Chocolate.
• Flour and bread.
• Mineral water.

In addition, certain typographical rules must also be followed. For example, the minimum font height is 1.2 millimeters. In general, the information must be easy to see and sufficiently legible. And in no case should it be necessary to open the product to access this information.

Why is the Translation of Food Product Labeling Important?

The translation of product labeling serves to make all this key information, which is so in demand today, accessible to everyone, regardless of their language. Thus, the label and its content are key communication elements between the company and consumers.

However, not everyone realizes that translating food product labels requires certain legal and linguistic knowledge. This is crucial, as miscommunication can lead to serious consequences, including health risks for consumers and potential legal issues for companies. That’s why, for added security, many organizations choose to hire a professional translation company to do this work. This ensures that they:

• Reach all their target markets.
• Convey clear information in several languages.
• Convince buyers of the benefits of their products.
• Avoid penalties for non-compliance with European regulations.
• When operating in non-EU countries, avoid retentions in customs, with the consequences that this entails.

Challenges in Label Translation for Food Products

Label translation involves more than just converting text from one language to another; it requires a deep understanding of cultural nuances, legal regulations, and industry-specific terminology. Here are some challenges that companies may face when translating food product labels:

1. Cultural Sensitivity: Different cultures may have varying interpretations of certain ingredients or phrases. A term that is appealing in one language may not have the same positive connotation in another. For example, the term “natural” may be viewed differently across cultures, necessitating careful consideration during translation.
2. Legal Compliance: Different countries have unique labeling regulations that must be adhered to. For example, some countries may require additional information on allergens or specific dietary restrictions, while others may have strict guidelines regarding health claims. Translators must be well-versed in these regulations to avoid legal issues.
3. Technical Language: Food labels often contain specialized terminology that can be challenging to translate accurately. This includes scientific terms related to food processing, nutritional content, and ingredients. It’s crucial to engage translators who are familiar with food science and industry terminology to ensure accuracy.
4. Character Limitations: Certain packaging formats may restrict the amount of text that can be included. This limitation can complicate the translation process, as it may require condensing information while still maintaining clarity and compliance with regulations.
5. Consumer Understanding: The ultimate goal of label translation is to communicate effectively with consumers. If the translated label is too technical or uses jargon unfamiliar to the average consumer, it may fail to convey the intended message. A balance between technical accuracy and consumer-friendly language is essential.

By acknowledging these challenges, companies can take proactive steps to ensure their label translation is effective and compliant, ultimately enhancing consumer trust and brand reputation.

Moreover, accurate label translation is essential for maintaining brand integrity and consumer trust. A well-translated label can enhance the appeal of a product in a foreign market, showcasing the company’s commitment to quality and transparency.

If you too want carefully crafted labeling for your food products, trust Linguaserve. Our professionals will take care of everything with the utmost diligence and professionalism, ensuring that your product labels meet all legal requirements and resonate with your target audience.