Top Common Pitfalls and FAQs of Food Labeling in Indonesia

Food labeling plays a vital role in ensuring consumer safety, providing essential product information, and facilitating market transparency. In Indonesia, the growing food and beverage industry must be in line with strict labeling regulations set by the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM). Non-compliance can result in penalties such as fines, product recalls, and/or suspension of business operations.

This article highlights the most common pitfalls in food labeling in Indonesia and answers frequently asked questions to help businesses navigate these regulations effectively. Understanding and complying with these requirements is crucial for companies aiming to maintain market access, and build trust with Indonesian consumers.

Common Pitfalls in Food Labeling

Here are the five most prevalent errors commonly observed on processed food labels:

1. Misinterpretation of Mandatory and Prohibited Information

This error arises when essential mandatory details are omitted, or prohibited information is erroneously included on the label.

2. Improper Placement of Labeling Items

This occurs when items required to be displayed on the principal display panel are mistakenly positioned elsewhere on the label, which is a non-compliance.

3. Inaccurate Ingredient Declaration

Ingredients are not listed in the correct descending order by quantity, are not compliant to QUID (Quantitative Ingredient Declaration) guidelines, or do not comply with regulations for labeling food additives.

4. Non-Compliant ING Table Formatting

The format of the ING table fails to meet established regulatory standards.

5. Omission of Required Warnings

This includes the absence of mandatory warnings, such as when a product contains artificial sweeteners without corresponding cautionary notice regarding their use.

FAQs of Food Labeling

Here are 10 frequently asked questions about food labeling:

Q1: Is it mandatory to include the importer's address on the label of food imported into Indonesia?

A1: Based on BPOM Regulation No. 31 of 2018 on Processed Food Labels, as amended by BPOM Regulation No. 20 of 2021, imported processed food must include both the name and address of the producer on the label, as well as the name and address of the importer or distributor.

Q2: What information should be included on secondary packaging containing individually packaged products?

Q3: What is the process for applying for a processed food label review?

Q4: What are the guidelines for including terms such as "recyclable," "reusable," or "biodegradable" on processed food labels?

Q5: Are imported products required to have a halal certificate in Indonesia?

Q6: Are there specific size requirements for text on processed food labels?

Q7: Is it allowed to label a product as "plant-based"?

Q8: Can processed food labels include information in a foreign language?

Q9: What nutrients must be listed in the ING table?

Q10: Who is responsible for testing the nutrient values listed in the ING table?

Navigating the regulatory landscape of food labeling in Indonesia can be challenging. However, by being aware of common pitfalls and FAQs, businesses can take proactive steps to ensure their labels are compliant with Indonesian standards. As the food and beverage industry in Indonesia continues to grow, staying informed about labeling regulations and best practices will be essential for any company looking to succeed.

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