Labelling eggs and egg products
In general, you must label all packaged eggs and egg products. However, the Food Standards Code allows some exemptions to this rule, provided you can provide some information to customers.
Rules for labelling eggs sold in their shells
If your eggs need a label, you must follow the general labelling rules for your carton, tray, wrapper or any other packaging. This includes a nutrition information panel (NIP) on the package.
Instead of giving content by weight, you may give the number of eggs.
Health or nutrition claims
If you make a health or nutrition claim about eggs, you must provide this information on the NIP.
Health and nutrition content claims for food and drink
When eggs in shells don't need a label
You don't need to label eggs if you:
- sell eggs without packaging
- pack eggs in front of the buyer
- sell eggs where they are laid
- sell eggs at a fundraising event.
However, if a customer asks, you need to provide:
- storage directions
- nutrition information (if you are making a claim about the eggs).
You could put this information on a notice placed with, or close by the eggs, or tell customers who ask. It’s important to make sure the information is accurate for different batches of eggs sold.
Find out more
Labelling and selling eggs in their shells (shell eggs) [PDF, 1 MB]
Guidance document: Understanding food labelling requirements for shell eggs and egg products [PDF, 520 KB]
Who to contact
If you have questions about labelling eggs and egg products, email info@mpi.govt.nz
