Minimum font size is the legally required x-height for mandatory particulars on EU food labels, set by Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011, ensuring that information such as ingredients and allergens is legible to consumers.
In trade practice
Label designers and QA teams measure x-height, not cap height, when checking compliance, as the two differ and using cap height is a common error. The required x-height is smaller for packages whose largest surface falls below a defined area threshold, and artwork briefs should specify which threshold applies. Buyers conducting label approval checks look at contrast and background colour as well as font size, since poor contrast can make technically compliant text practically unreadable. Printers may reduce font size during artwork adaptation, so a final print proof review is standard practice.
In a specification
A label specification or artwork brief should state the required x-height for each text zone, reference the applicable surface area threshold, and require a signed-off print proof confirming legibility before production commences.