Читать книгу Food Regulation - Neal D. Fortin - Страница 122

Net quantity is the requirement for an accurate statement of the net amount of the contents of food in a package. The net quantity statement helps customers in two ways: it allows them to know how much food is in a container, and it aids in price comparison. “Net” refers to the quantity of edible food in a package or container. Therefore, net content excludes any liquid or juice in which the food may be packed, unless the liquid is usually consumed as part of the food. Net also excludes the weight of the container or wrappers.

The Federal FD&C Act and the FPLA require that a food, in package form, bear a label with an accurate statement of the quantity of the contents in terms of weight, measure, or numerical count. Regulations interpreting these statutory requirements require that the statement appear on the PDP in terms of the customary inch/pound system of measure.³⁵

The statement must appear in lines generally parallel to the base of the package when displayed for sale. If the area of the PDP of the package is larger than five square inches, the statement must appear within the lower 30 percent of the label panel. Also, with certain limited exceptions, the statement must appear in conspicuous and easily legible boldface print or type in distinct contrast to other matter on the package. Further, the statement must meet the minimum type size set in 21 C.F.R. § 101.105.