Labeling Laws for Consumer Products: Federal or State Regulation?
Labeling laws are administered by a combination of federal and state agencies. Federal agencies which are heavily involved in product labeling laws include the CPSC, FTC, and FDA. Collectively, federal and state laws require manufacturers to place informative labels and warnings on various types of products based upon product category, materials or substance, and applicable safety standards.
What is the The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)?
The FTC has broad authority to regulate consumer products that are not otherwise regulated by a separate agency. Most notably, the FTC places consumer goods into product categories and prescribes specific labeling requirements pursuant applicable statutes, regulations, or industry standards.
What is the Food and Drug Administration?
The Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act is the primary federal law administered by the Food and Drug Administration. The FDA classifies goods falling under its regulatory authority into product groups, such as cosmetic and food labeling. The FDA requires extensive testing and labeling to disclose and avoid potential hazards to consumers. In general, the FDA prescribes the content for labels that must be affixed on the inside and outside of product containers, wrappers, or packaging.
What is the Consumer Product Safety Commission?
The CPSC is primarily charged with ensuring consumer product safety. As part of this mission, the agency enforces packaging, labeling and other consumer disclosure provisions. Notably, the CPSA enforces labeling provisions under the Consumer Product Safety Act, Federal Hazardous Substance Act, and Poison Prevention Packaging Act. Reade more...
What is the US Customs and Border Protection Service (CBP)?
The CBP regulates and polices the flow of goods into and out of the United States. It is tasked with enforcing US labeling laws for imported goods. Goods incorrectly labeled may be refused entry into the United States, subject to fines, and destroyed.
What is the The Fair Packaging and Labeling Act?
The Fair Packing and Labeling Act (FPLA) is the primary labeling law in the United States. It was passed in 1967 to require labeling of consumer commodities. The provisions of the FPLA are enforced by the Food and Drug Administration and Federal Trade Commission.