Pet Supplement Labelling in the UK

Durable Label Materials for Pet Supplements

Options for Plastic Bottles for Oils, Powders, and Capsules

When products are packaged in plastic bottles, label materials must be selected for flexibility, adhesion, and resistance. Polypropylene is one of the most reliable materials for plastic bottles because it resists moisture and tearing. It maintains a clean appearance in humid conditions and performs exceptionally well on PET and HDPE bottles.

Polyethylene labels, on the other hand, are more pliable and can move with the container without lifting or creasing at the edges, making them better suited to bottles with distinctive curves and shapes.

Best Fit for Glass Tincture Bottles for Liquid Supplements

Glass tincture bottles used for liquid vitamins and oils have distinct performance considerations. These bottles are typically small and can come into contact with lubricants that can transfer onto the label surface.

Polyester (PET) labels work particularly well on these tincture bottles and are durable, scratch-resistant, and maintain a premium look over time. Polypropylene labels are a more cost-effective option and provide good resistance to moisture and oils. Clear film labels can be used on glass bottles to create a “no-label” look, keeping the product's transparency and purity as the focus.

Flexible Materials for Pouches and Sachets for Chews and Powders

Labels on plastic pouches must be flexible enough to stretch without cracking or peeling. Stand-up pouches and sachets are commonly used for chews, snacks, and powdered supplements, but their flexible structure makes rigid label films prone to failure.

Polyethylene labels are ideal for these packs, as they stretch and return to shape along with the pouch, helping the label stay firmly in place and look good even when the packaging is folded or squeezed. Polypropylene labels are also a good option for more structured pouches, with higher print clarity and scuff resistance while still allowing some flexibility.

Custom Boxes and Secondary Packaging

Custom boxes are typically used for secondary packaging or premium presentation and are usually made from cardboard or paperboard. Because these boxes are not exposed to moisture or oils as primary packaging is, there is greater flexibility in choosing label materials.

Paper labels are an excellent option for boxes because they deliver superior print quality and a tactile texture that complements high-end or environmentally conscious businesses. Paper labels can be treated with a protective laminate to provide additional durability, keep them clear during handling and transportation, and prevent scuffing.

Premium Finishes Improve Consumer Trust

While label materials provide the foundation for durability, label finishes affect customer perception. By indicating product care and helping packaging age properly on the shelf, premium finishes strengthen consumer confidence. In a market where pet owners are demanding consumers, a well-designed label gives them confidence that the product is worthwhile and safe.

Matte finishes are widely used for pet supplement ranges and improve readability, reduce glare, and resist fingerprints, all of which contribute to a calm, professional aesthetic.

Gloss finishes, by contrast, enhance colour vibrancy, offer excellent resistance to moisture and oil, and are easy to wipe clean. The crispness of gloss finishes signals freshness and cleanliness, which are reassuring for consumer goods.

Spot varnish is another finish that highlights logos and primary claims without overwhelming the design. By drawing attention to trust-building information, such as veterinary approval or production methods, spot UV helps guide the consumer’s eye toward reassurance rather than marketing hype.

By carefully matching label materials and finishes to each packaging format, brands can protect their products while strengthening consumer confidence.

Labelling Laws for Pet Supplements & Pet Food

The UK’s animal feed legislation governs products intended for pets (cats, dogs, birds, etc.). This law requires all animal feeds to be safe for consumption and not harmful to animals, and it governs how they can be marketed and labelled. “Pet supplements” can sometimes be sold similarly to complementary feeds under animal feed law, but they must follow the same legal approach to safety and labelling. The main law referred to is Regulation (EC) No 767/2009on animal products, which remains applicable in UK law and covers pet food and pet feed materials.

These rules aim to ensure information is not misleading, so customers know what they’re feeding their pets. For example, pet food must clearly say whether it’s “complete”, meaning suitable as a full diet or “complementary”, which applies to supplements or treats. If a product contains feed materials or additives intended for pets, it must be labelled according to the animal feed rules above and nutrients or additives included must be accurately declared. The UK Food Standards Agency provide official guidance on this.

Mandatory label information:

·      What the product is

·      The animal species it’s intended for

·      Ingredients list

·      Instructions for use (how much to give, how often)

·      Best before or use-by dates

·      Batch number and net weight

·      Guaranteed analysis or nutrient levels

·      Manufacturer or business name and address

Why Work with Vista Labels?

With more than two decades of experience in the vitamins and supplements market and more than 50 years of experience dealing with the healthcare and lifestyle sectors, Vista Labels has the background knowledge to help your pet supplement products shine. We support our customers in complying with legal regulations, and because specifications are constantly evolving, working with a reputable label printer like Vista Labels helps ensure your packaging meets the highest industry standards now and in the future.

Are you thinking about upgrading your pet supplement labelling? Contact us or visit our website to explore our professional solutions at Vista Labels today!