Are These Truly the Product Labels We’ll Find on Them?
Mia Hoffmann
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Diets Premium Expert • 25.09.2026
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Scientifically reviewed by a clinical dietitian:
This article has been peer-reviewed for adherence to IŻŻ, WHO, and PTGiP clinical nutritional standards.
| Diets Premium Expert Mia Hoffmann | min read 6 min | Scientifically reviewed by a clinical dietitian 25.09.2026 |
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Key Takeaways
Manufacturers can be accused of enticing potential customers into purchasing their products by utilizing colorful labels, original packaging, or memorable advertising slogans. However, it is essential to emphasize that in the case of food products, quality and content are the most significant factors, not the aesthetic values. Therefore, it is worth focusing on what is frequently written in small letters on the back of the packaging, namely the product label. What do the individual mysterious symbols and numbers mean? Are they a cause for concern?
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What essential details must a food product label include?
Food labelling in Poland is strictly governed by national legislation, including the Law of 25 August 2006 on food safety and the Act of 21 December 2000 on the commercial quality of agricultural products. Additionally, implementing regulations based on these laws and EU directives apply. These regulations aim to protect consumers from misleading information and ensure their safety when consuming food products.
As stipulated by legal regulations regarding the labelling of food products:
The labelling must be clear, legible, and understandable, and it should not be easily removable or washable. It must not mislead consumers regarding the product's composition, properties, or effects. Furthermore, it must not imply that the food has the ability to treat or prevent diseases.
The label must include the following details:
– full product name, – list of ingredients with nutritional values per 100 g/100 ml, – minimum durability date or use-by date, – manufacturer or distributor details, – country of origin, – preparation instructions (if applicable), – net weight, – batch number and product class, – storage conditions.
Is that truly the most nutritionally significant aspect?
For consumers, the most critical aspects are the composition, nutritional value, expiration date, preparation method, and storage conditions of a product. Ingredients are typically listed from highest to lowest content. Nutritional information is provided in one of the designated labeling categories. The first category mandates the declaration of energy value, protein content, fat content, and carbohydrate content. The second category requires additional details on saturated fatty acids, fiber, sodium, and other nutrients if their content exceeds 15% of the recommended daily intake. Consumers should consider not only caloric content but also other components. While the GDA label is not mandatory, it is highly informative as it clearly indicates the recommended daily intake. Due to rising allergies and intolerances, manufacturers must disclose allergens such as eggs, fish, shellfish, milk, gluten, nuts, soy, celery, mustard, sesame, lupin, sulfur dioxide, and sulfites. The expiration date and best-before date have distinct meanings. The expiration date applies to perishable products like yogurt or juices, whereas the best-before date pertains to powdered products. Proper storage and preparation according to manufacturer guidelines are also essential.
Mysterious symbols on food packaging
The most concern among consumers is caused by cryptic designations such as "E" codes on food labels. However, it is important to note that these additives are used in strictly controlled quantities under European Commission regulations, and manufacturers must comply with these rules under the threat of penalties. In Poland, this matter is regulated by the Minister of Health's Ordinance of 22 November 2010, which specifies the list of permitted additives. Although the law ensures that none of these substances can pose a health risk, there are ongoing debates about their use. Therefore, it is advisable to familiarize oneself with the basic information about these designations to make informed choices when purchasing food and avoid ingredients that raise the most concerns.
Classification of chemical additive numbers:
100–199: colorants, 200–299: preservatives, 300–399: antioxidants and acidity regulators, 400–499: emulsifiers and leavening agents, 500–599: excipients, 600–699: flavor enhancers, 900–999: sweeteners, glazing agents and others, 1000–1999: stabilizers, thickeners, preservatives and others. If allergic to any artificial food additives, it is essential to memorize their labels to identify potential product hazards.
A significant alternative logo
Additionally, it is advisable to pay attention to several key graphical symbols that can prove to be extremely useful when selecting the appropriate product.
Gluten-free products
The crossed grain symbol assists individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity in identifying products they should avoid during shopping.
Preservative-Free Products
The "preservative-free" label on a green background assures consumers that the food product does not contain any artificial preservatives, as guaranteed by the manufacturer.
The European Union organic farming label
The circular emblem featuring a green stalk encircled by stars assures that the product originates from certified organic farming or breeding operations. Similar labels, such as the Euroleaf, Ekoland, or the Organic Farming Certification Mark, also attest to high organic quality. For those prioritizing environmental protection, it is advisable to familiarize themselves with various certifications that verify the organic origin of products.
Summary
Given the information provided, the question arises: how do we select the best option from the multitude of available products? The most straightforward principle is that the shorter the ingredient list, the higher the product's quality. Therefore, we should not be swayed by advertisements, appealing labels, or attractive packaging. Instead, we must carefully examine product labels and make informed purchasing decisions. Only knowledge ensures both safety and long-term health. Thus, it is worth choosing high-quality foods that enhance our well-being and overall health. Remember, you are what you eat – prioritizing a healthy diet is essential!
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Mia Hoffmann
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Diets Premium team expert. Specializes in nutrition plans, strength sports, and training plans.
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