The United States is one of the largest food markets in the world—representing one-third to one-half of global consumption in many product categories. Because of this size and scale, entering the U.S. market requires a deep understanding of its laws, regulations, and labeling requirements.

In this first installment of our How to Import Food Products Into the USA series, Tim Forrest explains the foundational step that every global food brand must master before shipping their product: the food label.

Whether you’re a manufacturer, exporter, founder, or international distributor, this video is your essential starting point for navigating U.S. food entry.

Why the U.S. Food Label Matters

Your food label is not simply a piece of packaging — in the United States, it is a legal document. It must communicate specific information to protect consumers, comply with federal and state laws, and accurately represent your product.

Tim highlights that the label must:

• Be written in English

• Clearly identify the product

• Declare accurate ingredients and allergen information

• Include a compliant Nutrition Facts Panel

• Display net quantity

• Name the responsible firm (manufacturer, packer, or distributor)

Failure to meet these requirements can result in port delays, relabeling, holds, or even refused entry.

The Three Primary U.S. Laws That Govern Food Labeling

To import food into the United States, brands must comply with three core pieces of legislation:

1. Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA)

This ensures that food sold in the U.S. is safe, wholesome, and properly labeled. It covers misbranding, adulteration, and mandatory label statements.

2. Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA)

This law requires consumer products to have honest, standardized, and informative labels, including net quantity, identity, and manufacturer information.

3. Public Health Service Act (PHS)

The PHS Act authorizes FDA to regulate conditions that present risks to public health, including foodborne hazards and contamination concerns.

Collectively, these laws form the basis of U.S. food import compliance — and your label is the first place regulators look for alignment.

Before Importing Food to the U.S.: What You Must Prepare

Tim emphasizes that successful U.S. entry begins long before your shipment reaches a port. Key areas international brands must review include:

✔ Label Compliance Review

Ensure every part of the front, back, and side panels meets FDA guidelines.

✔ Ingredient Declaration & Allergen Compliance

U.S. allergen laws differ from many other countries — accuracy is critical.

✔ Nutrition Facts Format

The U.S. label has a unique format, font size, and layout standardized by FDA.

✔ Net Quantity & Measurement Rules

Must be in both U.S. customary units and metric, properly placed and sized.

✔ Company Name & Address Requirements

Identify the responsible party, and if not U.S.-based, include proper qualifying language.

Completing this preparation early saves significant time, money, and stress once products arrive at a U.S. port.

Why Brands Trust Tim Forrest Consulting

For decades, Tim has helped international food brands navigate the complexities of:

• FDA and USDA compliance

• Label reviews and revisions

• U.S. packaging requirements

• Facility and supplier verification

• Documentation for U.S. port entry

• Retail and distribution readiness

Tim Forrest Consulting provides a complete service package to get your international product safely and legally into the U.S. market — and ultimately into American households.

“The U.S. label is your first step toward compliance, consumer trust, and marketplace success. Get this right, and everything that follows becomes easier.”
— Tim Forrest

Ready to Bring Your Food Product Into the United States?

If you have an innovative food product or a growing brand and want expert guidance navigating U.S. labeling laws, documentation, or import requirements, schedule a call with Tim Forrest today.

👉 Book your appointment at www.timforrest.com