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Packaging Design Fundamentals

Packaging as a system: brand hierarchy, consumer journey on pack, information architecture, and translating tone into structural and visual elements. Includes shelf impact and balancing marketing vs. regulatory.

6 minutes
fundamentals
Next: Typography & Readability on Pack
Lesson Video
Packaging Design Fundamentals
Module Content

1) Executive Summary

The 5–7 most important insights
  1. Design is a systems problem. Effective packs align four planes at once: (a) regulatory minimums (mandatory particulars, legibility, barcode performance), (b) manufacturing capability (process tolerances, dieline/finishing limits), (c) commercial goals (brand hierarchy, shelf salience, conversion cues), and (d) end-of-life outcomes (recyclability/EPR fees). Neglecting any one of these typically forces costly rework downstream [EU 1169/2011; UK FIR 2014; FDA 21 CFR part 101; GS1 General Specifications]. [9]([EatrightPRO][1]) [12]([Legislation.gov.uk][2]) [7]([eCFR][3]) [1]([GS1][4])
  2. Legibility is regulated (not subjective). EU/UK mandate minimum x-height for mandatory food information (≥1.2 mm; 0.9 mm for small packs). U.S. net quantity statement and Nutrition Facts typography have specified minimums tied to PDP area and format. Build type scales from law up, not brand down. [10][11][6][8] ([EUR-Lex][5], [Food Standards Agency][6], [U.S. Food and Drug Administration][7], [GovInfo][8])
  3. Barcode performance is a design variable. GS1 General Specifications (v25) and ISO/IEC print-quality standards (15415/15416) make sizes, quiet zones, and verification grades explicit; targeting 2D readiness (“Sunrise 2027”) reduces future relabel costs and enables richer on-pack journeys (GS1 Digital Link). [2][4][5][31][32]([gs1uk.org][9], [ISO][10], [ista.org][11])
  4. Sustainability claims must be evidence-backed. FTC Green Guides (US; under revision), CMA Green Claims Code (UK), and the proposed EU Green Claims Directive require specific, non-misleading, and substantiated claims. Align claims wording with program rules (APR/How2Recycle/OPRL/CEFLEX) and keep audit files. [19][20][21][22][23][24][25]([ReciPal][12], [foodallergyawareness.org][13], [EUR-Lex][14], [Fortis Solutions Group][15], [How2Recycle][16], [CEFLEX D4ACE][17], [OPRL][18])
  5. EPR is changing cost curves. UK packaging EPR base fees are live; EU PPWR (2025/40) modernizes harmonized rules; U.S. EPR is rolling out state-by-state (CA/OR/CO/ME). Material/format choices now drive fees and recyclability eligibility, affecting P&L and artwork. [14][13][15][16][17][18] ([How2Recycle][19], [ncrarecycles.org][20], [nacd.net][21], [Sustainable Packaging Coalition][22])
  6. Process standards exist—use them. ISO 12647 series governs print process control (offset/flexo), reducing reproof cycles and ΔE disputes when paired with characterized printing conditions. [28][29]([ISO][23])
  7. Barrier and durability specs need test methods, not guesses. Quote and archive the test method (e.g., WVTR per ASTM F1249 or ISO 15106-3; OTR per ASTM D3985) with the number. Without the method, “specs” are not comparable. [42][43][44]([ASTM International | ASTM][24], [ametekmocon.com][25], [ISO][26])
3–5 recommended designer actions
  • Build a regulatory baseline grid on the dieline (zones/typography for identity, net quantity, mandatory particulars, allergen emphasis, barcode placement) before creative iterations. [6][7][8][9][39]([U.S. Food and Drug Administration][7], [eCFR][3], [GovInfo][8], [EatrightPRO][1], [GS1 US Documents][27])
  • Lock a barcode quality plan: choose symbology, X-dimension range, quiet zones, and verification grade/acceptance using ISO/IEC 15415/15416; pre-flight proofs. [4][5][1][3]([ISO][10], [GS1][4], [gs1uk.org][28])
  • Decide recyclability pathway early (APR/CEFLEX/OPRL/How2Recycle), then pick substrates/inks/labels/closures to protect that eligibility. Document substantiation. [22][24][25][23]([Fortis Solutions Group][15], [CEFLEX D4ACE][17], [OPRL][18], [How2Recycle][16])
  • Tie claims copy to standards (Green Guides/CMA/EU) and keep evidence files; avoid “100% eco-friendly,” “plastic-free,” or “recyclable everywhere” without program-specific proof. [19][20][21]([ReciPal][12], [foodallergyawareness.org][13], [EUR-Lex][14])
  • Create calculator-ready specs: PDP area, x-height, bar width magnification, yield math, CO₂/cost trade-offs, EPR fees.
Key risks & 12–24-month watchlist
  • GS1 2D migration accelerates; POS readiness varies by retailer—design for dual 1D/2D now. [31][32]([ista.org][11])
  • Green claims enforcement tightens across UK/EU; FTC Green Guides update anticipated; expect scrutiny of “recyclable,” “compostable,” “biodegradable.” [19][20][21]([ReciPal][12], [foodallergyawareness.org][13], [EUR-Lex][14])
  • PPWR implementation phases in with design/reuse targets and recycled content/sortability provisions for some formats; national EPR fee modulators evolve. [13]([ncrarecycles.org][20])
  • US cosmetics under MoCRA: fragrance allergen disclosure rulemaking timeline—monitor to pre-reserve label real estate. [38][5]([U.S. Food and Drug Administration][29], [ISO][30])

2) Definitions & Concepts

Glossary (plain English)
  • PDP (Principal Display Panel): The main front panel consumers see; U.S. typography and net quantity rules scale with PDP area. [8]([GovInfo][8])
  • Mandatory particulars (EU/UK): The legally required info on food labels (name, ingredients, allergens, QUID, net quantity, date, storage, business name, origin, instructions, nutrition). [9]([EatrightPRO][1])
  • x-height: Height of lowercase “x” in a font; used in EU/UK legibility rules (≥1.2 mm; 0.9 mm for small packs). [10][11]([EUR-Lex][5], [Food Standards Agency][6])
  • Quiet zone (barcode): Clear area left/right (and around 2D) where no other graphics appear; size is a multiple of the module (X-dimension). [1][3]([GS1][4], [gs1uk.org][28])
  • X-dimension: The module (narrow bar) width of a barcode; drives symbol width and scan reliability. [1]([GS1][4])
  • Verification grade: Objective barcode quality grade (A–F or 4.0–0.0) per ISO/IEC 15415/15416. [4][5]([ISO][10])
  • Digital Link (GS1): Standard that encodes GS1 identifiers/attributes in a URL, enabling one on-pack 2D code for POS and consumer journeys. [31] ([ista.org][11])
  • APR/CEFLEX/OPRL/How2Recycle: Design-for-recycling programs with format-specific rules/eligibility. [22][24][25][23]([Fortis Solutions Group][15], [CEFLEX D4ACE][17], [OPRL][18], [How2Recycle][16])
  • OTR/WVTR: Oxygen/Water Vapor Transmission Rates; barrier performance measured to ASTM/ISO methods (D3985; F1249; ISO 15106-3). [42][43][44]
Concept map (bullet diagram)
  • Brand Strategy → hierarchy & tone of voice → informs Information Architecture (who/what/how much; claims; navigation) → bounded by Regulatory Floors (type sizes; mandatory particulars; warnings) [6][7][8][9] → constrained by Manufacturing (print process/ISO 12647; dieline; finishing) [28][29] → instrumented by Data Carriers (GS1 1D/2D; placement/verification) [1][4][5] → evaluated for Sustainability & EPR (program eligibility; fee impacts; claims law). [13][14][19][22][23][24][25]

3) Standards, Regulations, and Governance

3.1 Cross-cutting authorities and programs
  • GS1 General Specifications (v25, 2025) define symbology dimensions, placement principles, and data structures used globally at POS and in distribution. [1][2]([GS1][4], [gs1uk.org][9])
  • ISO/IEC 15415 (2024) & 15416 (2025) define barcode print-quality test specifications (2D & linear). [5][4]([ISO][30])
  • ISO 12647 series sets process aims/tolerances for proofing/offset/flexo. [28][29]([ISO][23])
  • Environmental packaging standards: ISO 18601/18602 and CEN EN 13429–13432 (EU harmonized) frame optimization/reuse/recycling/compostability claims. [21][11]([ISO][31], [Internal Market SMEs][32])
3.2 Per-region overview (with effective instruments & dates)
United States
  • Food labeling (FDA): 21 CFR Part 101 defines identity, net quantity, ingredient listing, allergen disclosure, and Nutrition Facts formatting. FDA’s Food Labeling Guide interprets details (non-binding). [7][6]([eCFR][3], [U.S. Food and Drug Administration][7])
  • Net quantity statement: mandatory placement/typography tied to PDP area (§101.105). [8]([GovInfo][8])
  • Cosmetics: 21 CFR Part 701; MoCRA (2022) adds fragrance-allergen disclosure (rulemaking pending), GMP, and reporting obligations. [37][38]([eCFR][33], [U.S. Food and Drug Administration][29])
  • Green marketing: FTC Green Guides (update in progress). [19]([ReciPal][12])
  • EPR (state level): CA/OR/CO/ME; staggered implementation; fee modulations and reporting differ by state. [15][16][17][18]
  • Transport/ISTA (e-commerce): ISTA 3A & 6-Amazon.com (SIOC/OB) for ship test compliance. [26][27]
European Union
  • Food information to consumers (FIC): Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 sets mandatory particulars; x-height ≥ 1.2 mm (0.9 mm for small packs). [9][10]
  • High-caffeine beverages: Annex III requires the “High caffeine content” statement above 150 mg/L with the exact caffeine content. [33]
  • Cosmetics: Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 (Article 19 labels; INCI names via Commission glossary). [35][20]
  • Packaging & environment: PPWR – Regulation (EU) 2025/40 replaces the Packaging Directive; watch implementing acts. [13]
  • Environmental claims: Green Claims Directive proposal. [21]
United Kingdom
  • Food: UK Food Information Regulations 2014 enforce EU FIC rules domestically; FSA guidance reiterates x-height minimums. [12][11][16]
  • High-caffeine statements: UK guidance mirrors EU thresholds. [34]
  • Cosmetics: GB retains 1223/2009 via UK enforcement guidance (OPSS). [36]
  • EPR (packaging): Base fees published; modulated fee design in development. [14]
  • Claims: CMA Green Claims Code (active). [20]
  • Consumer recycling labels: OPRL scheme widely used. [25]
3.3 What differs by region (quick table)
TopicUSEUUKEvidence
Food legibilityMin sizes by PDP area; specific Nutrition Facts formatsx-height ≥1.2 mm (0.9 mm small packs)Same x-height rule in assimilated law; FSA guidance[6][7][8][9][10][11][16]
Caffeine warningsNot standardized federally for soft drinksMandatory statement >150 mg/LMandatory statements aligned[33][34]
Cosmetics21 CFR 701 + MoCRA rollout1223/2009 harmonized1223/2009 retained in GB[37][38][35][36]
Green claimsFTC Green Guides (updating)Green Claims Directive (proposed)CMA Code (active)[19][21][20]
EPR (packaging)State-level (CA/OR/CO/ME)PPWR 2025/40UK base fees live, modulated fees[15][16][17][18][13][14]
Barcodes @ POSUPC/EAN per GS1; POS upgrade to 2D underwayEAN/GS1; 2D migrationEAN/GS1; 2D migration[1][2][31][32]
3.4 Known upcoming changes & timelines
  • GS1 “Sunrise 2027” 2D in Retail — progressively enabling one 2D code for POS + consumer journeys; plan for dual 1D/2D through transition. [31][32]
  • EU PPWR — watch delegated acts on recyclability, DPP, reuse targets. [13]
  • US MoCRA — fragrance allergen labeling rulemaking in FDA agenda. [38]
  • FTC Green Guides — update could redefine “recyclable” thresholds. [19]

4) Evidence Base & Benchmarks

4.1 Barcode size & verification benchmarks
EAN-13 size at common magnifications (POS)
MagnificationX-dimension (mm)Total width incl. quiet zones (mm)Height (mm)Source
80%0.3329.8318.28[3]([gs1uk.org][28])
100%0.33037.2922.85[3]([gs1uk.org][28])
150%0.49555.9434.28[3]([gs1uk.org][28])
Quiet zones (principle): leave clear areas as multiples of X-dimension per GS1; do not intrude with text/background patterns. [1][3]
Verification grades: Specify ISO/IEC 15415 (2D) and 15416 (linear) acceptance criteria in artwork specs; archive verifier reports. [5][4]
4.2 Legibility benchmarks (food)
  • EU/UK x-height: ≥ 1.2 mm (or ≥ 0.9 mm for small packs). [10][11]
  • U.S. net quantity statement: minimum letter heights scale with PDP area (e.g., ≥ 1/16 in up to 5 sq in; ≥ 1/8 in up to 25 sq in; ≥ 3/16 in up to 100 sq in; ≥ 1/4 in above 100 sq in; ≥ 1/2 in above 400 sq in). [8][6]
4.3 Barrier property test methods (quote the method)
  • OTR — ASTM D3985 (coulometric sensor) for films/sheets. [42]
  • WVTR — ASTM F1249 (modulated IR) or ISO 15106-3 (electrolytic sensor). [43][44]
Evidence gap: Typical OTR/WVTR values vary widely by resin, thickness, RH/temperature, and coatings; publish ranges only with identical test conditions and methods.
4.4 Print process control
  • Use ISO 12647-2 (offset) and 12647-6 (flexo) characterization datasets and tolerances; specify proofing conditions and measurement (e.g., M1 per ISO 13655) in the job ticket. [28][29]
Evidence gap: ΔE tolerances for brand spot colors are not universally standardized—agree per-brand targets and cite measurement conditions.

5) Design & Production Implications

5.1 Design rules of thumb (with sources)
  • Start with a legal grid: Reserve space for identity (PDP), mandatory particulars (info panel), net quantity (bottom 30% PDP in the U.S.), and barcode clear areas before creative. [8][9][39]
  • Legibility beats style: Meet x-height/size minimums; avoid low-contrast pairings for allergens/nutrition. [10][11][6]
  • Engineer the code: Choose symbology and magnification appropriate to substrate/process; verify to ISO/IEC. [1][4][5]
  • Specify test methods: Any barrier/durability spec includes the method and condition (e.g., WVTR F1249 @ 38 °C/90%RH). [43]
Manufacturing note: On textured/uncoated stocks or shrink films, expand barcode magnification (≥100% POS) and protect codes with solids/blocks to maintain contrast per GS1 guidance. [1][3]
5.2 Material/format trade-offs (example matrix)
FormatCostCarbon (rel.)Recyclability pathwayPrintabilityTypical risksPrograms to check
Mono-PE pouch$↓Store drop-off/curbside (jurisdiction-dependent)Good (flexo/digital)Seal/odors; barrierAPR, CEFLEX, How2Recycle [22][24][23]
PET bottle + HDPE cap + BOPP label$$↔Curbside; label/adhesive criticalExcellentLabel ink bleed; APR critical guidanceAPR [22]
Glass jar + paper label$$↑ weightWidely recyclableExcellentBreakage; label adhesiveOPRL/How2Recycle [25][23]
Evidence gap: Carbon/cost vary by geography/energy mix; use LCA and supplier EPDs for real figures.
5.3 Manufacturability flags
  • Tolerances: Follow printer’s minimum line/space, trap/choke, and registration limits aligned to ISO 12647 targets; avoid hairline rules around mandatory text. [28][29]
  • Artwork pitfalls: Knockouts through rich blacks; micro-reversed text over images; barcode over varnish textures; overprint flags incorrectly set. [1][4]
  • Finishing constraints: Emboss/deboss near barcodes or Nutrition Facts; shrink label distortion near mandatory text—bake in keep-out zones. [1]
5.4 Supplier perspective (what converters/OEMs need)

Complete RFQ pack: substrate, ink system, print process, run-length, color targets (ICC/spot books), tolerances, barcode symbology & verification grade, finishing, palletization, ship tests (ISTA). [26][28][29]

6) Sustainability & Compliance Considerations

6.1 Recyclability guidance & label eligibility
  • APR Design® Guide (US plastics) — critical do’s/don’ts for labels, inks, adhesives, closures; consult format-specific chapters. [22]
  • CEFLEX D4ACE (EU flexibles) — design rules for mono-material flexibles and sortability. [24]
  • How2Recycle (US) — membership assessment determines label; eligibility depends on item-level design. [23]
  • OPRL (UK) — scheme reflects UK collections/sorting/reprocessing likelihood; check rules annually. [25]
6.2 EPR implications & documentation
  • UK base fees — material-based fees published; expect future modulated fees tied to recyclability/performance. Archive bill of materials and evidence. [14]
  • EU PPWR — harmonizes design and waste rules; anticipate recyclability performance classes informing fees/claims. [13]
  • US EPR — track state portals (CA/OR/CO/ME) for producer registration, reporting, eco-modulated fees. [15][16][17][18]
6.3 Claims risk (words to avoid & safer alternatives)
  • Avoid absolute, unqualified claims (“environmentally friendly,” “zero-waste,” “100% recyclable”) unless true for most consumers under FTC/UK/EU tests and substantiated; use qualified claims with conditions and programs cited. [19][20][21]
Compliance watch: Keep a claims substantiation file: test reports, program determinations (APR/OPRL/How2Recycle), LCA summaries, and legal sign-off.

7) Workflow & Tooling (for PDA tools)

7.1 Checklists (ready to adapt)
Print-ready artwork checklist
  • ☐ All mandatory text meets regional minima (x-height or CFR sizes), with measured x-height notes. [10][11][8]
  • ☐ Barcode spec sheet attached (symbology, magnification, quiet zones, verification target/last report). [1][4][5]
  • ☐ Proofing/print conditions per ISO 12647 (condition, tolerances, measurement). [28][29]
  • ☐ Claims cross-checked with FTC/CMA/EU doctrine; substantiation file referenced. [19][20][21]
Recyclability/compliance intake checklist
  • ☐ Target label program (APR/OPRL/How2Recycle/CEFLEX) and eligibility path chosen. [22][25][23][24]
  • ☐ EPR markets & producer IDs captured; material bill mapped to fee drivers. [14][15][16][17][18]
7.2 Decision trees (blueprints)
  1. A. Choose barcode strategy (POS items)
    Will it scan at POS? → If Yes, keep EAN-13/UPC-A at appropriate magnification + add 2D GS1 QR/DataMatrix where retailer supports (dual carry). If No POS (online only), 2D only may suffice but consider warehouse scanning. [1][31][32]
    Substrate/print process limits? → Increase X-dimension & quiet zones; specify verification grade A/B. [3][4][5]
  2. B. Select print process by run-length & substrate
    Short runs/multi-SKUs → digital; medium/long on paperboard → offset (ISO 12647-2); films/flexibles → flexo (ISO 12647-6). [28][29]
  3. C. Choose label stock/adhesive (PET containers)
    Goal: APR “Preferred” outcome → polyolefin label with washable ink/adhesive per APR guidance; avoid PVC or metallized labels. [22]
7.3 Calculator blueprints
  • PDP area (rectangular): width×height; (cylinder): 40% of circumference×height. Use to compute U.S. net quantity type size per §101.105. [8]
  • EAN-13 width = quiet left + bars + quiet right; from magnification table; embed as function of X-dimension. [3]
  • Yield math (carton sheet): floor((sheetW – margins)/(dieW + gaps)) × floor((sheetH – margins)/(dieH + gaps)).
  • Barrier spec string: “WVTR x g/m²·day @ 38 °C/90%RH (ASTM F1249); OTR y cc/m²·day @ 23 °C/0%RH (ASTM D3985).” [43][42]
7.4 Template specs (to-be)
  • RFQ fields: Markets (US/EU/UK), claims & evidence IDs, barcode plan, ISO 12647 print condition, verification grade, APR/OPRL/How2Recycle status, EPR markets & IDs. [14][22][25]
  • Artwork naming/versioning: {Brand}*{SKU}*{MarketSet}*{Lang}*{Rev} _{Date} _PrepressStatus.

8) Category-Specific Guidance

8.1 Beauty (cosmetics)
  • EU (1223/2009): Article 19 mandates function, nominal content, date of durability, special precautions, batch number, responsible person, country of origin (if import), and INCI ingredient list. [35][20]
  • US: 21 CFR 701; MoCRA adds fragrance-allergen disclosure via upcoming rule—reserve space. [37][38]
  • UK: Applies GB version of 1223/2009; OPSS guidance covers responsible person and notification. [36]
Designer tip: Put usage function near identity on PDP (EU) and keep ingredient panel high-contrast, non-condensed.
8.2 Food
  • US: Statement of identity on PDP; net quantity in bottom 30% with specific type sizes; Nutrition Facts per FDA formats; allergens per FALCPA/FASTER (sesame). [7][8][6]
  • EU/UK: Mandatory particulars and x-height rules; allergen emphasis within list; caffeine warning for drinks >150 mg/L. [9][10][11][33][34]
Compliance watch: Where multi-market packs are used, design to the strictest legibility rule (EU/UK x-height) and include U.S. net quantity block per CFR.
8.3 Beverage (non-alcohol)
  • Caffeine claims/warnings: Follow EU/UK statements and include mg/100 mL where required; in the U.S., ensure truthful disclosure and avoid implied “functional” claims without substantiation. [33][34][19]
  • Barcodes on curved surfaces: Increase magnification and place in low-curvature zones; verify across line speeds. [1][3][4]

9) Case Studies (Problem → Approach → Result)

CS-1: Preparing for GS1 2D (“Sunrise 2027”) on a POS beverage
Problem: Retailer pilots require 2D without losing legacy scan rates.
Approach: Keep EAN-13 at 100–120% magnification with full quiet zones; add GS1 QR (Digital Link) at ≥20 mm, high contrast; specify verification grade B or better; lock placement on PDP upper right. [31][32][1][5]
Result: Maintained POS reliability while enabling recipe/traceability UX via 2D, no reprint when retailer turns on 2D scanning.
Generalizable: Dual-carry until retailer estate fully supports 2D.
CS-2: Moving PET bottle label system to APR-preferred
Problem: “Check locally” How2Recycle outcome and material loss at MRF.
Approach: Switch to floatable polyolefin label + washable ink/adhesive per APR Design® Guide; artwork protected in label panel to avoid bleed. [22]
Result: APR-preferred design path, improved label-removal in wash; eligible for upgraded consumer label in U.S. programs.
Evidence gap: Quantitative reclaim yield must be confirmed with reclaimer trials; log test data to substantiation file.
CS-3: EU x-height non-compliance remediation on a snack pouch
Problem: Allergen emphasis illegible during audit.
Approach: Rebuilt legal grid; increased body copy to meet ≥1.2 mm x-height, reflowed panels; ensured contrast and maintained QUID proximity. [10]
Result: Passed follow-up inspection; minimal reproof as brand hierarchy preserved.
Replication plan: collect (a) pre/post dielines, (b) verifier reports (ISO/IEC 15415/15416), (c) APR/OPRL/How2Recycle determinations, (d) audit checklists, (e) print run deltas (waste, reproofs).

10) Common Pitfalls & Red Flags

  1. Under-sized text (fails x-height or CFR sizes). [10][8]
  2. Barcode quiet zone intrusions (gradients, microtext, dieline shadows). [1][3]
  3. Unsubstantiated eco-claims (e.g., “plastic-free” on multi-material). [19][20]
  4. Wrong barrier specs (no test method/condition). [42][43]
  5. Multi-market packs using weakest rule (design to strictest). [9][10][11]
  6. Overprinting errors (knockouts on fine text; spot color assumptions). [28][29]
  7. Ignoring 2D migration (no real estate allocated). [31][32]
  8. Cosmetic labels missing function/instructions (EU). [35]
  9. Caffeine statement missing (EU/UK) >150 mg/L. [33][34]
  10. No ISTA plan for DTC (damage/returns). [26][27]

15) References

Primary standards, regulations & official guidance
  1. GS1. GS1 General Specifications (core standard portal). ([GS1][4])
  2. GS1 UK. “GS1 General Specifications updated for 2025 (v25).” ([gs1uk.org][9])
  3. GS1 UK Knowledge Hub. “How big should a point-of-sale barcode be?” (EAN-13 sizes). ([gs1uk.org][28])
  4. ISO/IEC 15416 (2025). Barcode print quality—Linear symbols. ([ISO][10])
  5. ISO/IEC 15415 (2024). Barcode print quality—Two-dimensional symbols. ([ISO][30])
  6. FDA. Food Labeling Guide (guidance for industry). ([U.S. Food and Drug Administration][7])
  7. eCFR. 21 CFR Part 101—Food labeling (current). ([eCFR][3])
  8. 21 CFR §101.105. Declaration of net quantity of contents. ([GovInfo][8])
  9. EUR-Lex. Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 (FIC). ([EatrightPRO][1])
  10. EUR-Lex/FIC Annex IV (x-height). ([EUR-Lex][5])
  11. FSA (UK). “Packaging and labelling—how to display mandatory information.” ([Food Standards Agency][6])
  12. Legislation.gov.uk. Food Information Regulations 2014 (England). ([Legislation.gov.uk][2])
  13. EUR-Lex. Regulation (EU) 2025/40—PPWR. ([ncrarecycles.org][20])
  14. GOV.UK. “Packaging EPR: base fees for UK-based producers.” ([How2Recycle][19])
  15. CalRecycle. SB 54 Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act. ([How2Recycle][34])
  16. Oregon DEQ. Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act. ([nacd.net][21])
  17. Colorado CDPHE. Producer Responsibility Program for Statewide Recycling. ([Sustainable Packaging Coalition][22])
  18. Maine DEP. Packaging EPR Program. ([Sustainable Packaging Coalition][37])
  19. FTC. Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims (Green Guides). ([ReciPal][12])
  20. CMA (UK). Green Claims Code. ([foodallergyawareness.org][13])
  21. European Parliament. Green Claims Directive—status. ([EUR-Lex][14])
  22. APR. APR Design® Guide for Plastics Recyclability. ([Fortis Solutions Group][15])
  23. Sustainable Packaging Coalition. How2Recycle—program overview. ([How2Recycle][16])
  24. CEFLEX. Designing for a Circular Economy (D4ACE). ([CEFLEX D4ACE][17])
  25. OPRL. About/Rules (UK consumer recycling labels). ([OPRL][18])
  26. ISTA. Procedure 3A—Parcel Delivery Systems. ([ISO][23])
  27. ISTA. Procedure 6-Amazon.com (SIOC/OB). ([ISO][38])
  28. ISO 12647-2 (offset) and 12647-6 (flexo). ([ISO][23][38])
  29. GS1. 2D in Retail (GS1 Digital Link, migration guidance). ([ista.org][11])
  30. GS1 global. The shift to 2D barcodes (Sunrise 2027). ([ista.org][39])
  31. EUR-Lex. FIC Annex III—High caffeine content statements. ([EUR-Lex][14])
  32. UK Government. Caffeine—adding warnings to labels. ([Food Standards Agency][35])
  33. EUR-Lex. Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009—Cosmetics (Article 19). ([EUR-Lex][5])
  34. GOV.UK (OPSS). Making cosmetic products available in Great Britain. ([GOV.UK][36])
  35. eCFR. 21 CFR Part 701—Cosmetic labeling. ([eCFR][33])
  36. FDA. MoCRA (fragrance allergens rulemaking). ([U.S. Food and Drug Administration][29])
  37. GS1 US. Barcode symbol placement guidelines. ([GS1 US Documents][27])
  38. ASTM D3985. Oxygen Gas Transmission Rate through Plastic Film. ([ASTM][24])
  39. ASTM F1249. Water Vapor Transmission Rate through Plastic Film. ([ametekmocon.com][25])
  40. ISO 15106-3. WVTR using electrolytic sensor. ([ISO][26])
  41. ISTA 6-Amazon-SIOC overview. ([ISO][39])
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