What Must Be on a Jam Jar Label? (UK Guide)
If you’re selling jam in the UK, your labels must include certain information to comply with food labelling regulations. Whether you’re selling at markets, online, or supplying retailers, getting this right is essential.
This guide explains what must be included on your jam jar labels and how to present it clearly without compromising your design.
What Must Be on a Jam Jar Label?
To meet UK requirements, your jam jar labels should include the following key information:
- Product name – Clearly state what the product is (e.g. Strawberry Jam)
- Ingredients list – Listed in descending order by weight
- Allergen information – Highlight any allergens clearly
- Net weight – Displayed in grams (e.g. 340g)
- Best before date – Indicates shelf life
- Business name and address – The producer or seller
Including this information ensures your product is compliant and ready for sale.
How to Structure Your Label
A well-structured label makes it easier for customers to read and understand your product.
- Place the product name prominently on the front
- Use the main label for branding and key details
- Add additional information on the back or as part of a wraparound design
A versatile size like 99 x 68mm labels provides enough space for essential information, while larger options such as 99 x 139mm labels give more room for detailed layouts.
Front vs Back Labels
Many jam producers split their information across two labels:
- Front label – Product name, flavour, and branding
- Back label – Ingredients, weight, and business details
This keeps your design clean while still meeting legal requirements.
Using Wraparound Labels
Wraparound labels allow you to include all required information in one continuous design.
Sizes like 200 x 144mm labels are ideal for larger jars or retail-ready products.
Font Size and Readability
UK guidelines require that mandatory information is easy to read.
- Use clear, legible fonts
- Avoid overly decorative fonts for ingredients
- Ensure strong contrast between text and background
Even on smaller labels like 64 x 38mm labels, readability should always be prioritised.
Choosing the Right Label Material
Alongside compliance, your label should be durable enough for real-world use.
- Matt paper labels – Ideal for a clean, traditional look
- Waterproof labels – Best for chilled storage or condensation
- Kraft labels – Perfect for artisan or farm shop products
You can explore all options on our jam jar labels page.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing key information such as weight or ingredients
- Using text that is too small to read
- Overcrowding the label
- Not leaving enough space for compliance details
Planning your layout carefully will help avoid these issues.
Final Thoughts
Creating compliant jam jar labels doesn’t need to be complicated. By including the correct information and structuring your label properly, you can meet UK requirements while maintaining a strong, attractive design.
For more guidance, visit our jam jar labels page or explore our jam jar label size guide.