Like Hollywood movies and rock ’n’ roll music, burger is a symbol of the American culture and has been successfully representing the U.S. throughout the world for at least half a century.
Classic burgers are usually made with ground beef, but food producers are definitely not lacking ideas for different burger types and tastes. Hence, we can choose between: chicken, turkey, fish, veggie, breaded, deep-fried, spice burgers and more. Being vegetarian today means we can certainly enjoy a nice, delicious burger made without meat.
When referring to “real” or ground beef burgers, we’re talking about meat that is produced according to strict standards and regulations created by federal and state food safety agencies. The USDA is in charge of inspecting whether meat products sold on the interstate market comply with all regulations and are safe for consumption. This agency also provides detailed information about how to properly label your packaged burger product and, though these regulations are numerous and complex, there are a few basic labeling rules that you should know. Always provide the following information on your burger label:
- Product name (i.e. “100% Beef Burger”)
- Safe food handling statement and instructions (it reminds consumers that bacteria may be present, that the meat must be cooked and handled properly)
- USDA inspection legend (if the meat was produced in a USDA-inspected plant)
- Net weight statement
- Ingredients (if other ingredients are added to beef, such as seasonings, natural flavor, etc.)
- Nutrition facts
- Address line
- Country of origin (i.e. “Born, raised and slaughtered in the U.S.”)
“Sell by” or “Best by” date is not required on a burger label.
USDA inspection legend
While the USDA exists to protect the consumer’s safety by monitoring how food safety regulations are applied, it would be impossible to inspect every meat product for sale individually. The USDA warns consumers that it is not unusual for harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or E.Coli to contaminate meat, especially raw meat. Ground meat produced in USDA-inspected plants are safer for consumption, but even if the product contains the USDA inspection legend, consumers are urged to cook their burgers properly.
Labels That Help You Sell Your Product
Labeling a food product comes with a series of complicated labeling requirements. However, food labels are an excellent aid in boosting sales. It is a long process to apply for a claim with the USDA and get approved, but once a claim such as “USDA organic” or “Non-Genetically Engineered” is granted and placed on a food sticker, it can go a long way in attracting new consumers.
In addition to claims that might inform consumers about how the product can improve their health, you can include other useful details about burger patties. Serving suggestions, best before date and potential thawing information can prove to be the decisive factor when a consumer is choosing between your product and the competition.
Labels That Stick in Freezing Conditions
Many consumers freeze burgers in their original packaging, so it is your job to make sure that the labels with important content, storing and handling information stay applied to frozen burgers at all times and in all storing conditions. Learning from mistakes is sometimes necessary, but it’s better to learn from mistakes made by other people. That being said, you should know that a wrong choice of label stock, adhesive or printing method can result in stickers that crack or peel off in cold conditions, which may be a good enough reason for consumers to buy a different burger brand the next time they go shopping.
The FreezerLabels.net team will produce freezer stickers that are worthy of your top quality product. We have experience with all types of printing techniques, different label materials, top-coating processes, “impossible” color combinations, unusual label sizes, and we’re here to advise you on the most appropriate custom label solution for your product. If you also need design services, our designers will take into consideration your target audience and other relevant details and provide you with a catchy design that calls to attention.