Like everywhere in the world, it is necessarily to have high-informative labelling in Portugal. They provide essential information about ingredients, too. Of course, for customers, who are health-concerned and are concerned about environmental impact it’s even more important to make informed choices.

Also, in today’s world, where we are well-heard about overconsumption and climate changes it is important to take care about environmental impact.

Last but not least – mandatory details, like: nutritional information, recycling instructions, and country of origin are also mentioned to make people’s choices more conscious.

EPR Packaging labelling in Portugal  

Portugal has some laws and regulations, which were made specially for the labelling and packaging of products. They are mainly based on EU directives, which are written about mandatory requirements for packaging and labelling. Product information is also usually placed on the labels and they also should follow current European standards, which are controlling the availability of correct information on product contents. Compliances with new regulations are providing instructions for segregation of packaging waste for Portugal and not-only businesses, too.

Of course, you should be always updated and be aware about new local regulations and standards to avoid fines.

European Union Legislation:

• General Product Safety Directive (2001/95/EC): Brings out general safety requirements for all EU/non-EU based products placed on the EU market, including labelling requirements.
• Food Safety Regulation (EC) No 178/2002: Establishes the main principles and requirements of food consumption and manufacture law, including clear and accurate food labelling.
• Food Information to Consumers Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011: Strictly controls the mist of information on food labelling, including mandatory information such as ingredients, allergens, nutritional information, and best-before dates.
• Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (94/62/EC): States about minimizing the environmental impact of packaging waste, requirements for labelling and recycling information.

Portuguese Legislation:

• Decreto-Lei 152-D/2017 (UNILEX): This decree contents the rules for packaging waste management in Portugal, also labelling requirements for packaging to educate consumers about proper disposal and recycling.
• Decreto-Lei 24/2024: This decree copes with the consequences of UNILEX and introduces new regulations for companies, including information for business owners and manufacturers – extended producer responsibility (EPR) and updated labelling requirements for packaging.

Key Aspects of Portuguese Labelling Requirements:

• Clear and Accurate Information: Labels must be clear, legible, not-misleading and easily understandable to consumers.
• Mandatory Information:
  • Product name
  • Ingredients list
  • Net quantity
  • Manufacturer or importer information
  • Best-before or use-by dates
  • Storage conditions
  • Instructions for use
  • Allergen information
  • Country of origin
  • Nutritional information (for food products)
• Language: Labels must be in countries national language – Portuguese.
• Units of Measurement: Must comply with the EU metric system.
• Health and Safety Warnings: If applicable, clear and concise warnings must be included (e.g., “Keep out of reach of children”).
• Environmental Information: Information about recycling and waste disposal may be required.

Specific Requirements for Food Products:

• Allergen Information: Must be brightly highlighted, such as using bold or a different font.
• Nutrition Facts: Must include information on energy, fat, carbohydrates, protein, and sodium content.
• Use-by/Best-before Dates: Clearly indicated and easily visible.

Penalties for Non-Compliance.

Fines can be imposed for non-compliance with labelling regulations. Product can be removed from the market or be seizured.

Summary of Key Requirements

• Clear and Accurate Information

Labels must be easily understandable and readable. Provide all necessary information and usage instructions to consumers – product name, ingredients, origin, storage conditions.

• Compliance with EU Regulations

Portuguese labelling laws are mainly based on EU directives, providing a harmonized approach across the European market.

• Focus on Consumer Safety

Regulations prioritize and provide consumer safety by showing clear allergen information, nutritional and appropriate warnings on labels.

• Environmental Considerations

Packaging waste management and recycling are merged with Portuguese labelling regulations  for clear disposal instructions.

Importance of Compliance:

• Non-compliant products may be seized or removed from the market, resulting in significant financial losses and reputational damage.
• Accurate and transparent labelling builds customer trust in your brand.
• Avoiding non-compliance fines and penalties is crucial for businesses operating in Portugal.
• Demonstrates a commitment to quality, safety, and environmental responsibility