Kick off 2026 with a competitive edge at PACK EXPO East. Register now!
Get a jump on your 2026 goals at PACK EXPO East. Put projects in motion, accelerate timelines and solve challenges—all in one trip to Philadelphia.

Harmonizing requirements

Fourteen food trade associations asked FDA to take the “small but important step” of making the “date of labeling” the trigger for the effective dates of new labeling requirements for both allergens and trans fat.

Although the requirements for both take effect on January 1, 2006, the food allergen requirements are based on the date of labeling while the trans fat requirements are based on the date of “initial introduction into interstate commerce.”

According to the associations, the difference could introduce complexities and uncertainty for companies in both labeling and distribution. Harmonizing the triggers will make the relabeling process more efficient. The request left it up to FDA to decide how best to do this.

Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
Hiring remains a major challenge in packaging, with 78% struggling to fill unskilled roles and 84% lacking experienced workers. As automation grows, companies must rethink hiring and training. Download the full report for key insights.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
The AI revolution in packaging robotics is here
Robots that see variations, adjust grip pressure automatically, accept plain-English commands, and predict their own maintenance. Discover how AI is transforming packaging operations.
Read More
The AI revolution in packaging robotics is here