UK Label Compliance Guide: Laws & Regulations for Your Business

In today’s highly regulated marketplace, accurate and compliant labelling isn’t just good practice—it’s a legal requirement. Whether you're selling food, cosmetics, electronics or general retail goods, understanding the UK’s label compliance standards is essential for protecting your business and your customers.

UK businesses must follow specific labelling laws to stay compliant, from product safety info to sector-specific rules for food, cosmetics, and retail. This guide explains what labels must include, key regulations, and how to avoid costly mistakes—helping you stay legally compliant and protect your customers with every product sold.

This comprehensive guide outlines the current labelling laws in the UK, sector-specific requirements, and practical steps your business can take to remain compliant.

Why Label Compliance Matters in the UK

Labelling compliance refers to the adherence to laws and standards that govern what information must appear on a product’s label. This ensures consumers receive honest, accurate and safe information about the goods they buy.

Non-compliance can lead to serious consequences:

• Fines and legal penalties

• Product recalls

• Reputational damage

• Loss of consumer trust

• Operational setbacks, particularly in cross-border trade
  
  

For businesses, maintaining compliant labels isn’t simply about ticking a legal box—it’s about ensuring smooth operations, traceability, and brand credibility.

Core UK Labelling Laws & Regulations

Understanding the legal framework is the first step in achieving label compliance. Some of the key regulations in force include:

1. The General Product Safety Regulations 2005

These regulations require that all products placed on the market are safe. Labels must include information such as the name and address of the manufacturer or importer, batch number, and any relevant warnings or instructions.

2. The UK Food Information Regulations (FIR)

Under FIR, food products must carry mandatory information including:

• List of ingredients

• Allergen declarations

• Use-by or best-before dates

• Storage conditions

• Name and address of the food business

3. The Cosmetic Products Enforcement Regulations 2013

Cosmetic products must comply with stringent rules covering:

• Ingredient list using INCI names

• Country of origin (if outside the UK)

• Period after opening (PAO) or expiry date

• Precautions for use

4. The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008

This regulation protects consumers from misleading product descriptions and deceptive packaging.

5. CE and UKCA Markings

Following Brexit, the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) marking has replaced CE markings for goods sold in Great Britain. Products that fall under this requirement include electronics, machinery and medical devices.

Mandatory Labelling Elements Across Industries

While specific requirements vary by sector, most products will require the following basic elements:

• Product name or description
  Clearly identify what the item is.

• Barcode or SKU
  Useful for inventory tracking and retail scanning.

• Price (where applicable)
  Especially for retail goods, price marking is governed by the Price Marking Order 2004.

• Manufacturer or importer details
  Must include name, address, and contact information.

• Safety information and usage instructions
  Required particularly for items with electrical, chemical, or hazardous content.

• Batch or lot numbers
  Essential for traceability in the event of a recall.

• Expiration or best-before dates
  Mandatory for perishable goods and pharmaceuticals.

Sector-Specific Labelling Regulations

Food and Drink

• Nutritional labelling is mandatory for pre-packed food.

• Allergen information must be highlighted (e.g. milk, nuts, gluten).

• Country of origin must be provided for fresh meats, fruits and vegetables.

• Alcohol labels must include alcohol by volume (ABV) and unit content.

Cosmetics

• Must list ingredients in descending order of weight.

• Labels should indicate intended use and usage warnings.

• Period-after-opening symbols help customers understand shelf life.

Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare Products

• All packaging must be approved by the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency).

• Information leaflets are often required inside packaging.

• Dosage, usage instructions, and potential side effects must be included.

Retail Goods

• Must display prices clearly and legibly.

• Any promotional offers or discounts should not be misleading.

• Product origin and material composition (for clothing) may also be required.

E-commerce Products

• Product description must match the product received.

• Return policies and terms should be clearly communicated.

• Labels should remain legible during transit and delivery.

Common Labelling Mistakes Businesses Make

Even experienced businesses can fall foul of labelling requirements. Here are some of the most common issues:

1. Inadequate Print Quality

Labels must be legible and durable. Faded or smudged labels can lead to enforcement action or customer complaints.

2. Missing or Inaccurate Information

From allergens to expiry dates, leaving out essential details can put consumers at risk and breach the law.

3. Non-compliant Barcodes

Barcodes must be formatted correctly and consistently. Errors can affect stock management and scanning at point of sale.

4. Outdated Legal References

Post-Brexit changes to CE/UKCA markings are often overlooked, leading to compliance issues.

5. Failing to Update Labels for Market Changes

Labelling requirements change frequently. Regular reviews are essential to remain compliant.

How to Stay Compliant in 2025 and Beyond

Ensuring ongoing compliance requires a proactive and systematic approach. Here’s how your business can stay ahead:

1. Conduct Regular Label Audits

Check that all product labels include legally required information and reflect current laws.

2. Work with Trusted Labelling Suppliers

Choose suppliers that understand compliance standards and offer reliable products. A partner like Price Gun Land can help ensure your labelling tools and supplies are up to the job.

3. Train Your Team

All staff involved in packaging, labelling, and shipping should be familiar with relevant requirements.

4. Use the Right Technology

Invest in high-quality printers, label applicators, and barcode systems that produce clear and long-lasting labels.

5. Monitor Legal Changes

Stay informed by following updates from:

• Trading Standards

• gov.uk

• MHRA (for medical products)

• FSA (Food Standards Agency)

Tools & Supplies That Help You Stay Compliant

A big part of staying compliant lies in using the right labelling tools. Here are essentials for any compliant operation:

• Price Guns – Ideal for retail environments, allowing quick and accurate price marking.

• Label Applicators – For high-volume labelling tasks, especially in warehouses.

• Thermal Transfer Printers – Create durable, smudge-free labels for shipping and compliance.

• Pre-Printed Labels – Save time and reduce errors by using standardised compliance labels.

• Barcode Labels and Scanners – Simplify inventory management and ensure product traceability.

At Price Gun Land, we offer a wide range of UK label-compliant products to support your business—whatever industry you're in.

Keep Your Labelling Compliant and Your Business Protected

Label compliance is a crucial aspect of running a legally sound, customer-focused business. By understanding and applying the latest UK regulations, you reduce risk, protect your customers, and strengthen your brand.

Whether you're launching a new product or reviewing your current labelling strategy, now is the time to ensure you’re fully compliant. Invest in the right tools, keep informed, and partner with experts who understand what’s at stake.

Explore Price Gun Land’s selection of label printers, guns, and compliance solutions today—your business depends on it.