Nutrition Facts Label Formats: Standard, Tabular, Linear

The FDA allows three Nutrition Facts formats: standard vertical, tabular and linear. Use the standard vertical format when it fits the package. Use tabular or linear only when the package is too small or the wrong shape. The rules are in 21 CFR 101.9(d) to (j).

What is the standard vertical format?

The standard format is the tall box most people know. It is the default, and you should use it whenever there is enough room on the package.

It reads from top to bottom:

• The heading "Nutrition Facts".
• Servings per container and the serving size.
• Calories, in large type.
• A column of nutrients with amounts and percent Daily Value.
• The footnote explaining percent Daily Value.

The layout is strict. The FDA sets the order of nutrients, the type sizes and the rules for bars and lines. A generator that follows the layout saves you from guessing.

What is the tabular format?

The tabular format shows the same panel in a wide, short layout. The FDA allows it when the package cannot fit the standard vertical box.

Nutrients are placed side by side in columns instead of one long stack. The content is the same. Only the shape changes. This works for wide, shallow packages, such as a flat box or a long bag.

What is the linear format?

The linear format puts the panel in a single paragraph of text. It is for very small packages where even the tabular layout does not fit.

It lists nutrients in a run, such as "Nutrition Facts Serv. size 1 cookie (30g), Calories 130, Total Fat 5g (6% DV)...". A strict order and wording still apply. You also cannot use it just because it looks tidier. It is a fallback for small space.

How do the three formats compare?

The table shows when each format makes sense. Check the exact package-size limits in the regulation before choosing.

When may you use tabular or linear?

You may use them only when the package meets the size or shape limits in 21 CFR 101.9(d) to (j). The limits depend on the package surface available for labeling.

I do not quote exact area numbers here, because they are easy to get wrong and the FDA can update them. Look up the current limits in the regulation, or ask the FDA. Measure the usable label area of your package, then compare it to the rule.

What are the practical tips for small packages?

Plan the panel before you order packaging. Changing a printed label is costly, and a panel that does not fit is a common reason for reprints.

1. Measure the area where the panel will go, not the whole package.
2. Try the standard format first at a readable size.
3. Move to tabular only if the standard box clearly cannot fit.
4. Use linear only for the smallest packages.
5. Print a proof at real size and check that the text is legible.
6. Leave contrast and white space. Low contrast is a frequent problem on kraft paper and colored bags.

Some very small packages may qualify for other relief, or for an exemption. See the small business exemptions guide for that route.

Can you shrink the standard format to fit?

Not freely. The standard format has minimum type sizes, and shrinking it below them is not allowed. If it will not fit at the required size, you must move to a format the regulation permits for your package.

Ask the FDA if your package is borderline. A short question is cheaper than a reprint or a warning letter.

What should the numbers in the panel look like?

All three formats show the same rounded values. Rounding does not change with the format. Review the FDA rounding rules and the cottage food label rules if you sell under a state law.

To build the panel, use the nutrition facts label generator. It applies the rounding rules to your recipe values. The method page explains the data behind them.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Confirm format rules with the current regulation or the FDA before you print.