By Andi Anderson
Small food businesses often find food labeling confusing, with rules covering nutrition facts, allergens, and packaging. To help simplify these regulations, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is offering a hands-on workshop in Altoona.
Titled “What’s on Your Label? A Bite-Sized Food Labeling Course,” the event is scheduled for June 4, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the ISU Extension and Outreach Polk County office. Registration costs $50 and is open to food entrepreneurs, home-based kitchens, and processors. The deadline to register is June 2.
Alex Van Alstyne, food business specialist at ISU Extension, explained, “Creating an accurate and compliant food label is one of the most important — and often most overlooked — steps for food businesses. This course is a great opportunity to gain clarity and practical tools.”
Participants can bring their own food labels or products for a live label review and Q&A session. The session will cover topics like nutrition facts, ingredient lists, allergen declarations, health claims, and marketing statements in compliance with FDA regulations.
The workshop will be led by Troy Crowe, a food scientist with more than 30 years of experience in product development, food safety compliance, quality systems, and process improvement.
“Food labeling mistakes can be costly — or even put your business at risk,” said Van Alstyne. “This workshop will help business owners avoid common pitfalls and feel confident in what goes on their label.”
For more information or to register, visit the ISU Extension website. This workshop provides the tools and knowledge to help small food businesses grow with confidence and meet regulatory standards.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle