Do You Really Need a Label for Your Microgreens?

If you’re like most people, you probably think that a label is only necessary for products that are potentially harmful to your health. After all, who wants to eat something if they don’t know what’s in it? But what about when it comes to food items that are considered healthy? Is there still a need for a label?

When it comes to microgreens, the answer is yes. Even though they are considered healthy food items, you still need to know what you eat. That’s because not all microgreens are created equal. The most commonly planted varieties of these small seedlings are arugula, basil, chives, cilantro, dill, broccoli microgreens, kale microgreens, red cabbage microgreens, red garden orach microgreens, microgreens grown from brassica seedlings, and radish. But did you know that there are actually over 50 different types of microgreens?

With so many options available, it can be hard to know which ones to choose. Some contain more nutrients than others, and some have a stronger flavor than others. So how do you know which ones are the best for you? By reading the label, of course.

The label on a microgreen product will tell you everything you need to know about the contents. It will list the different types of fresh microgreens in the mix and the nutrient content of each one. This way, you can easily compare different products and choose the one that best meets your needs. They have an abundance of individual phytonutrients. So read on as we answer the question: “Do you really need a label for your microgreens?”

What are Microgreens?

Microgreens are young vegetable greens that are typically harvested 7-21 days after planting. They are a popular ingredient in salads and sandwiches and can also be used as a garnish or decoration. These greens are packed with vitamins, including vitamins A, C, and E, as well as carotenoids and flavonoids. Microgreens are also known for their anticancer properties.

They have an abundance of individual phytonutrients known to promote health and protect against disease. It is a good idea to consume various microgreens for the most benefit. Though some have a bitter taste, many are sweet and delicate. Compared to full-grown vegetables, microgreens pack a much bigger nutritional punch. Many young microgreens start under natural sunlight growing on the windowsills of many homes.

Are There Federal Requirements for Labeling Microgreens for Sale?

Microgreens are a type of fresh produce that is harvested when they are young, tender, and immature. They are similar to sprouts but are grown for a longer period of time and therefore have a more defined flavor. Many people enjoy eating microgreens because they are packed with nutrients and have a delicate flavor that can enhance any dish.

If you are considering selling microgreens, you may wonder if there are federal requirements for labeling them. The answer is no. There are no federal requirements for labeling microgreens specifically.

However, there are general labeling requirements that all food products must meet to be sold commercially. In this blog post, we will provide an overview of the labeling requirements for microgreens so that you can ensure your products are properly labeled before putting them up for sale.

Labeling Requirements for Microgreens

All food products must be labeled in accordance with the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA). These laws require that all food labels include the following information: 

• The name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor
• An accurate description of the product 
• The net quantity of contents 
• The appropriate nutrition facts label 
• Any mandatory allergen statements 
• Any other information required by specific regulations 

In addition to these general labeling requirements, there are also certain claims that cannot be made on food labels unless FDA has approved them. For example, claims such as “low fat” or “no sugar added” can only be used if they meet the FDA’s definition. Additionally, any health claims made on food labels must comply with FDA regulations. For more information on these claims, please see FDA’s page on label claims. 

When labeling microgreens for sale, it is important to ensure that all of the required information is included. You should also double-check to ensure that any claims made on the label (such as nutrition claims) meet FDA’s requirements. 

If you are planning to sell microgreens commercially, it is important to make sure that your labels meet all of the applicable federal requirements. All food labels must include certain basic information, such as the manufacturer’s name and address, a description of the product, and the net quantity of contents. In addition, any nutrition or health claims made on the label must meet FDA’s requirements. By ensuring your labels comply with FDA’s food safety regulations, you can avoid problems down the road and be confident that your products are properly labeled for sale.

USDA Requirements for Labeling

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) does not have any specific labeling requirements for microgreens. However, the USDA does have general labeling requirements that all fresh fruits and vegetables must meet to be sold commercially. These requirements are designed to ensure that consumers have the information they need to make informed purchasing decisions. 

The general labeling requirements for fresh fruits and vegetables include the following information: 

• The name of the product
• The country of origin
• The net weight or volume
• The “best if used by” date (for perishable products) 

While the USDA does not have any specific labeling requirements for microgreens, all fresh fruits and vegetables must meet the general labeling requirements. This information helps consumers make informed purchasing decisions and choose products that are of the highest quality. 

Are there State Requirements for Labeling Microgreens for Sale?

You’ve done your research, set up your grow lights and trays, and your first batch of microgreens is ready to harvest. But before you can start selling them, you need to make sure that you’re labeling them correctly, which means knowing the state requirements for labeling microgreens.

Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question because the rules and regulations vary from state to state. In some states, such as California, Colorado, and Florida, there are very specific labeling requirements for microgreens that must be followed to sell them commercially. Other states, like Texas, have no specific labeling requirements for microgreens and simply require that they be labeled as “produce.” 

Still, other states fall somewhere in between these two extremes. For example, in Illinois, microgreens must be labeled with the product’s name, net weight, the producer’s or distributor’s name, address, and the statement “Keep Refrigerated.” Minnesota has similar requirements but mandates that the label include information about when the microgreens were harvested. 

By taking the time to research the labeling requirements for your state ahead of time, you can avoid any potential problems down the road.

What are the Labeling Requirements for a Cottage Food Operation?

Cottage foods are a type of food that can be produced and sold in a home kitchen without the need for special licenses or permits. These foods are typically low-risk, shelf-stable items such as baked goods, jams, and jellies. In order to sell cottage food products, there are labeling requirements that must be followed to ensure the safety of consumers. 

What You Should Include on Your Labels

In order to sell cottage food products, the following information should be included on the label:

• The name and address of the cottage food operation; 
• A statement informing the consumer that the product was made in a home kitchen; 
• A list of ingredients used in the product, listed in descending order by weight; 
• The net weight or volume of the product; 
• The name and phone number of the cottage food operator in case there are questions or concerns about the product; 
• An accurate description of the physical form of the product (e.g., “crunchy,” “chewy,” etc.); 
• The date on which the product was made; and 
• Any allergens present in the product.
• An outline of how the microgreens were grown. For example, you might say, “Our microgreens are grown without the use of pesticides or herbicides.”
• Any special storage or handling instructions, if necessary 
• The phrase “polecat pouches porch pickles – keep refrigerated” must appear on the label of any cottage food products that require refrigeration after opening. This phrase alerts consumers to the fact that these products have not been heat-processed and need to be kept refrigerated in order to prevent spoilage. Cottage food operations are also required to obtain a food handler’s license from their local health department. 

Before you can start selling your microgreens at the farmer’s market, next to your local tomato sauces, or in your local community, you must ensure that you comply with all cottage food labeling requirements. 

Making Sure Your Labels Are Compliant with the Law

The individual label for your microgreens product must be accurate and not misleading in any way. Additionally, it must be clear and easy to read. If you are unsure whether your labels meet these requirements, we recommend consulting with a labeling specialist who can help you ensure compliance.

By understanding and following the labeling requirements for cottage food operations, you can ensure that your products are safe for consumption and correctly advertised. Consumers will appreciate your attention to detail, and you can rest easy knowing that you comply with state regulations. The labeling requirements for cottage food operations may seem daunting at first, but as long as you take the time to understand what is required and ensure that your labels comply with the law, you will be selling your microgreens in no time.

The Benefits of Labeling Your Microgreens

When selling microgreens, it is important that you label your product. This ensures that your customers know what they are getting and allows you to list any allergens that may be present. Let’s discuss the benefits of labeling your microgreens and how to do it.

Why You Should Label Your Microgreens

As a microgreens producer, you are in charge of what goes into your soil mix and what kind of water and fertilizer you use. This gives you a lot of control over the quality of your product. However, it is important to remember that not all of your customers will have the same level of knowledge about microgreens as you do. This is why labeling your microgreens is so important.

Labeling your microgreens allows you to provide your customers with essential information about your product, such as what kind of greens are in the mix, whether or not there are any allergens present, and how the greens were grown (e.g., organically or not). This information is important for customers who may have dietary restrictions or simply want to know more about their eating.

In addition to providing essential information for your customers, labeling your microgreens also allows you to build trust with them. When customers see that you take the time to label your products, they will be more likely to trust that you take pride in your work and are selling a quality product.

Finally, labeling your microgreens also makes it easier for you to keep track of your inventory. This is especially important if you sell your microgreens at farmer’s markets or other events where there is a personal interaction with the customer. By having a system for labeling your microgreens, you can quickly and easily locate the products that a customer is interested in, which makes for a smoother transaction all around.

How to Label Your Microgreens

Now that we’ve discussed why labeling your microgreens is so important, let’s talk about how to do it. There are a few different ways to label your microgreens, but we recommend using plastic planters or plastic bags with labels attached.

If using plastic planters, make sure to clean them thoroughly before adding your labels. You can use a printer or handwrite the labels – whatever works best for you and fits within your budget. Be sure to include all relevant information on the label, such as the type of green, any allergens present, how the greens were grown (e.g., organically or not), and any other environmental conditions or additional details that may be relevant.

If you are using plastic bags, again, make sure to clean them thoroughly before adding labels. You’ll also want to include a small amount of moisture – just enough to keep the greens fresh – before sealing the bag. As with planters, you can use a printer or handwrite labels for plastic bags – whatever works best for you and fits within budget constraints.

How to Ensure Your Microgreens are Accurately Labeled

Microgreens are gaining popularity as a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal. But for farmers and producers, ensuring that your microgreens are accurately labeled can be a challenge. Here are a few tips on ensuring your product is correctly labeled so you can avoid any compliance issues down the road.

1. Know your audience. Who will be buying your microgreens? If you’re selling to restaurants, they’ll likely have specific requirements for labeling. For example, some restaurants may require that you include the date of harvest, while others may not need that information. Knowing who your customer is will help you determine what information needs to be included on the label.
2. Choose the right labeling material. You want to ensure the labels you use can withstand the elements—Either humidity from being stored in the fridge or exposure to sunlight if displayed outdoors. Waterproof labels are a good option for both indoor and outdoor use. 
3. Use clear and legible font. Once you’ve determined what information needs to be included on the label, make sure it’s easy to read. Use a clear font and print in a dark color to make the text easy to see. Also, refrain from using all CAPS, as it can be challenging to read. 
4. Include an expiration date. All food products must have an expiration date, and microgreens are no exception. Be sure to include an expiration date that accurately reflects how long the microgreens will stay fresh (typically 1-2 weeks). 
5. Follow state and federal regulations (if applicable). Each state has its own set of labeling laws, so be sure to check with your local agriculture department to see what regulations need to be followed. In addition, the FDA has its own set of food labeling requirements that must be met, regardless of what state you’re in. 

What You Should Include on Your Microgreens Label

You’ve finally done it. After weeks of research, you have your first crop of microgreens ready to harvest. Congratulations! With a little bit of care and attention, you’ll be able to turn this into a thriving business. One of the most important aspects of selling microgreens is properly labeling your product.

The Name of Your Microgreen Business

This might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to include the name of their business on their labels! Make sure your business name is prominently displayed on your label so customers can easily find you online or in stores.

A Product Photo

People love buying products that they can see, so make sure to include a photo of your microgreens on the label. If possible, try to use a photo that shows off your microgreens’ vibrant colors and healthy greens. Customers will be drawn to these beautiful photos and be more likely to purchase your product. The right graphic design can make a big difference in the overall look of your label.

A List of Ingredients

Customers want to know what they’re putting into their bodies, so it’s important to list all of the ingredients that are in your microgreens. Include any special ingredients that make your microgreens unique, such as heirloom varieties or superfoods. Also, make sure to list any allergens that are present in your microgreens so that customers with allergies can avoid them.

The Date That Your Microgreens Were Picked

It’s important to include the date that your microgreens were picked on the label so that customers know how fresh they are. Microgreens are best eaten within 2-3 days of being harvested, so customers will be looking for products with recent pick dates. You can also include a “Best By” date on your label if you think that your microgreens will still be fresh after a few days.

Where Your Microgreens Were Grown

Customers like to know where their food comes from, so make sure to include the location of your farm or garden on the label. If you use organic growing methods, be sure to mention that as well! This will let customers know they support sustainable agriculture practices when purchasing your microgreens.

Properly labeling your microgreens is essential for selling them successfully. Make sure to include the name of your business, a photo of your product, a list of ingredients, the date that your microgreens were picked, and where they were grown. With these items on your label, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful microgreen farmer.

How to Design Your Own Microgreens Plant Label

You will need to design a label for your product if you’re thinking about selling microgreens (and you wouldn’t be here if you were not serious about that, right?). This may seem daunting, but it’s not as difficult as you might think. Below, we’ll walk you through the process of designing a microgreens label from start to finish. By the end, you’ll have all the tools you need to create an attractive and informative label.

• Start with the basics. The first step is gathering all the information you will need to include on your label. This should include your product’s name, company name, ingredient list, and allergen information. You will also need to choose a font and color scheme for your label. Once you have all of this information, you are ready to start designing.
• Keep it simple. When it comes to labels, less is more. You want your label to be easy to read and understand at a glance. Use clear, concise language, and avoid using too many colors or patterns. Too much information on a label can be overwhelming for customers. Remember, your goal is to ensure that your customers can quickly find the information they are looking for without being overwhelmed by too much data.
• Make it eye-catching. Even though you want to keep your label simple, that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Use colors and images that will grab attention and make your product stand out on the shelves. Try to use colors that contrast well with each other so that your label is easy to read. At the same time, don’t go overboard with too many colors, or you’ll end up with something that looks gaudy. If you’re not sure where to start, there are plenty of label design templates available online that can give you some inspiration.
• Print it out. Once you’re happy with your design, it’s time to print out your labels. If you’re not sure where to get started, many online printing companies specialize in labels for small businesses. Just be sure to order enough labels for all the microgreens you plan to sell!
• Decide on the size of your label. Microgreens are typically sold in small containers, so your label should be proportionate to the size of the container. 
• Choose a font that is easy to read. Remember that your customers will need to be able to read the ingredients list and other information on your label. 
• Use colors that contrast nicely with each other. This will make your label more eye-catching and easier to read. 
• Make sure the logo or other images you use are high quality. Blurry images will make your label look unprofessional. 
• Include all of the required information on your labels, such as the ingredients list, expiration date, and storage instructions.  
• Be Wary Of Using White Space. While you want your label to be easy to read, you also don’t want it to look too empty. That said, be careful not to overcrowd your label with too much information or too many images. The ideal balance will vary depending on the size and shape of your label, so experiment until you find what looks best.
• Get Professional Help If Needed. Designing a professional-looking label can be tricky, especially if you’re not experienced with design software. If you’re not confident in your abilities, it may be worth hiring a professional designer to create a label for you. This will cost more money upfront, but it could pay off in higher sales down the line. 

Designing a microgreens label may seem daunting, but with these simple tips, you’ll be able to create an attractive and informative label in no time.

Reasons Why You Might Not Need a Label for Your Microgreens

When starting to sell microgreens, it can be tempting to cut corners to save money. After all, every penny counts when you’re just getting started. 

One area where this is often tempted is labeling. 

You might be wondering, do I really need to label my microgreens? The short answer is no. You don’t need a label for your microgreens (in certain circumstances). Here’s a breakdown of why you might not need a label for your microgreens.

1. You’re selling to people you know. If you’re selling your microgreens to friends, family, or other people you know well, then you likely don’t need a label. These people already know what your product is and don’t need a lot of convincing to buy it. Just throw them in a bag or container and call it good!
2. You have a small operation. If you’re only selling a few trays of microgreens here and there, then labeling might not be worth your time or money. A small operation can get away with not having labels much easier than a larger operation. However, if you’re planning on expanding your business in the future, then it’s probably best to start labeling now, so you don’t have to play catch-up later.
3. You’re selling at farmer’s markets or other local events. When you sell at farmer’s markets or other events, people are typically more interested in buying locally grown produce than getting the perfect-looking greens. They understand that your product isn’t going to look like something that came from the supermarket because it didn’t come from the supermarket. In these cases, labels aren’t as important as they would be if you were selling in a grocery store setting. 

As you can see, several reasons you might not need a label for your microgreens. Of course, this doesn’t mean that labels are never necessary—if you’re selling in a large grocery store, or have scaled your business to the point where you are using commercial growth chambers, for example, then labels are definitely going to be a requirement. But if you question whether labels are worth the investment, just ask yourself if any of the above scenarios apply to your business. If they do, then chances are labels aren’t necessary.

The Pros and Cons of Labeling Microgreens

Microgreens are a type of vegetable that is harvested shortly after the germination of the seed. They are often used as a garnish or as a salad ingredient and pack a lot of flavor despite their small size. If you are considering selling microgreens, you may wonder if you need to label them. Here are some pros and cons to help you make your decision.

The Pros of Labeling Microgreens

1. Regulations: Depending on where you plan to sell your microgreens, regulations may require you to label your product. It is always best to check with the appropriate governing body to determine the labeling requirements in your area.
2. Allergies: Some people have severe allergies to certain food ingredients. You can help people with allergies avoid your product by clearly labeling your microgreens. 
3. Traceability: If there is ever a food recall, having a label on your microgreens can help the authorities trace the product back to you so that they can determine how many people may have been affected by the contaminated food. 
4. Marketing: A well-designed label can help your microgreens stand out from the competition and attract customers. 

The Cons of Labeling Microgreens

• Cost: Labeling your microgreens can be expensive, especially if you plan to sell them in large quantities. The cost of the labels can add up quickly, and you will also need to factor in the cost of printing or hiring someone to print the labels for you. 
• Time: It takes time to design and print labels and then apply them to each container of microgreens. This can cut your profits if you cannot sell the greens quickly enough. 
• Waste: If you change your mind about using labels or decide to switch to a different type of label, you will likely end up with a lot of waste since unused labels cannot be reused. 
• Loss of Flexibility: Once you commit to using labels, it can be difficult to make changes without incurring additional costs or creating waste. For example, if you need to change the price or expiration date on your labels, you will likely have to print new ones entirely, which costs time and money. 
• Dependence on Outside Vendors: If you decide to hire someone else to design and print your labels, you will be at their mercy regarding turnaround time and cost, which can fluctuate depending on their workload and other factors beyond your control. 

As with anything, there are pros and cons to labeling microgreens (or any other product). Ultimately, the decision comes down to what makes sense for your business in terms of cost, time, effort, and marketing goals.

Tips for Success with Your Microgreens Business

Ready to start selling microgreens? Great! You’re in for a fun, challenging, and delicious ride. But before you start, you need to know a few key things to set yourself up for success. Keep reading for our top tips on how to make your microgreen business a success!

1. Do your research. As with any new venture, it’s important to do your research before jumping in headfirst. Read books, talk to other growers, attend trade shows and conferences, and visit local farms to get a feel for what’s involved in growing and selling microgreens. The more you know about the ins and outs of the business, the better prepared you’ll be to succeed.
2. Find your niche. There are countless ways to grow and sell microgreens, so it’s important to find a niche that works for you. Ask yourself what kind of microgreens you want to grow, your target market, and how you want to sell your greens (e.g., at farmer’s markets, through CSA shares, or direct-to-restaurant). Once you’ve answered these questions, you’ll have a much better idea of what kind of business model will work best for you.
3. Invest in high-quality seeds. When it comes to microgreens, quality seeds are key. After all, if your seeds don’t germinate or don’t produce strong plants, you won’t have anything to sell! Research different seed companies and find one that offers the type of seeds you’re looking for at a price point that works for you. Then place a small test order to make sure the quality is up to snuff before investing in a larger quantity.
4. Start small. When starting out, it’s always best to start small and expand as your business grows. This way, you won’t get overwhelmed by too much work too soon (which can lead to burnout), and you’ll save money by not investing in more space or equipment than you need. Once you’ve got some experience under your belt and your business is starting to take off, you can consider increasing your production scale.
5. Make sure you’re pricing your greens properly. One mistake that many new growers make is pricing their greens too low—either because they’re afraid of turning customers away or because they don’t realize how much work goes into growing microgreens. As a general rule of thumb, most growers charge between $2 and $5 per ounce for their microgreens (or $25-$35 per pound). If your prices are too low, you may struggle to make ends meet; if they’re too high, customers may go elsewhere. Do some research on comparable products in your area and price accordingly.

It takes time, effort, and dedication to grow beautiful (and delicious!) microgreens—but it’s so worth it when customers take that first bite of one of your crops! By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to operating a thriving microgreens business in no time.

All businesses come with risks, but that doesn’t mean yours can’t be successful. In recent years, there’s been an increasing interest in microgreens, and as a result, more and more people are looking to get into the business. Growing microgreens is a fantastic way to become part of the sustainable agriculture movement while also making a profit—but only if you do it right. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to microgreens stardom.