Symbols on packaging can be classified using a structured system based on their purpose, regulatory status, and the type of information they communicate. Below is a comprehensive and industry-aligned classification model used in packaging, food labeling, and consumer goods.
Regulatory & Compliance Symbols
These symbols are mandatory or industry-standard and communicate safety, legal, or quality requirements.
Examples:
- Food safe (glass and fork icon)
- Recycling codes (e.g., Mobius loop, resin codes like PET/1, PP/5)
- CE mark
- Green Dot (packaging recovery program)
- Irradiation symbol (Radura)
Certification marks such as:
- Halal
- Kosher (OU, K, etc.)
- Organic certifications (USDA Organic, EU Leaf)
Purpose: Ensure legal compliance and consumer protection.
Handling & Storage Symbols
These symbols describe how the product or package should be handled, stored, or transported.
Examples:
- Keep in a cool, dry place
- Temperature limits (thermometer symbol)
- Keep frozen or frozen product icon
- Fragile (broken wine glass)
- This way up (arrows)
- Do not stack
- Keep away from sunlight
- Moisture barrier symbol
Purpose: Protect product integrity and prevent damage.
Preparation & Usage Symbols
These inform the consumer how to prepare, open, or use the product.
Examples:
- Microwave-safe / not microwave-safe
- Add water / boil water
- Shake before use
- Open here / tear notch indicators
- Freeze-dried symbol
- Rehydration instructions (cup + water droplet)
Purpose: Enable correct, safe product use.
Nutritional & Dietary Symbols
These relate to health attributes, dietary restrictions, or ingredient characteristics.
Examples:
- V (vegetarian)
- Vegan leaf symbol
- Gluten-free (crossed grain)
- Allergen markers (peanut, milk, egg, etc.)
- Non-GMO
- High protein / low fat / low sugar badges
Purpose: Support dietary choices and health compliance.
Sustainability & Environmental Symbols
These indicate how the packaging impacts the environment or how to dispose of it.
Examples:
- Recyclable / Partially recyclable
- Biodegradable
- Compostable
- Tidyman symbol
- FSC label (paper from responsible forests)
- Green Dot (producer responsibility program)
Purpose: Encourage proper disposal and support environmental transparency.