Adding extra information to bakery labels will help pastry and confectionery companies follow applicable nutrition laws. This is necessary since organizations, like schools, are cracking down on unhealthy snacks. To prove the nutritional value of their goods, bakeries need to print updated labels that take up just the right amount of space while informing consumers.
The government’s Smart Snacks in Schools initiative doesn’t just pertain to fruits and veggies: So-called “junk foods” can still be sold at schools, but local vendors need to make sure their baked goods fit within regulations and are clearly marked. The Detroit News recently reported on the Student Union at a local school that has suffered because the cookies they used to sell are no longer allowed.
On the Smart Snacks official website, the USDA lists several guidelines for producing child nutrition labels, as well as information on what needs to be displayed. Although these aren’t mandatory, it’s important that companies know these restrictions and place labels so they are visible.
“There is no Federal requirement that anyone make or purchase CN labeled products,” the official site reads. “Purchasing decisions are left to the local level. If a CN labeled product is desired, this must be clearly stated in purchasing specifications.” It also notes that major meal items that “contribute to the meat/meat alternate component” need these labels.
A pastry company should use a printer designed for customer-printed labels that outline all ingredients for easy access. Even if this isn’t required, businesses that do this will put themselves ahead of the game and set a good standard for disclosure.