We’ve introduced a new label styling option in ReciPal: PNG labels with transparent backgrounds. While most design customization still happens outside ReciPal, this feature gives you greater flexibility to integrate your nutrition label seamlessly into your packaging design, helping reduce your design time.

Why Use Transparent Backgrounds?

Transparent backgrounds allow your nutrition label to better match your packaging design, rather than sit as a white box on top of it. This can make your branding feel more polished, professional, and cohesive.

Previously, only the nutrition facts panel could have a customizable background color. Now, you can make the entire label background transparent and overlay it directly onto your packaging or design template. With this feature, you can:

• Match your packaging’s color scheme
• Incorporate subtle design elements
• Create a distinctive, tailored look

💪 Pro tip: Transparency works best when kept simple. Solid colored backgrounds or subtle patterns can elevate the design—just make sure they don’t interfere with legibility.

What the FDA Requires (and Where You Can Get Creative)

While transparent backgrounds give you flexibility, FDA rules still apply—especially for the nutrition facts panel.

According to 21 CFR 101.9(d):

“The nutrition information shall be set off in a box by use of hairlines and shall be all black or one color type, printed on a white or other neutral contrasting background whenever practical.”

So, on the NFP you are limited to a single background color and it must have strong contrast and legibility. You are allowed to print your NFP directly on packaging films, but you need to be extra cautious that this does not interfere with the readability.

For the other parts of the label, like ingredient lists, allergens, or company address, the FDA offers a bit more flexibility.

According to the FDA's Food Labeling Guide:

“The lettering must contrast sufficiently with the background so as to be easy to read.”

So there is a little more room for creativity here. On these elements, simple design additions that don’t adversely affect the readability can be used.

However, you must still make sure that you:

• Use type that’s easy to read (at least 1/16" tall)
• Have adequate contrast between the text and background
• Avoid cluttering required information with graphics or decorative elements

How to Use Transparent Labels in ReciPal

It’s easy to set up:

1. Go to your label style settings in ReciPal
2. Select the option for transparent background
3. Make sure to download the file as a PNG—transparency doesn’t work with other formats

⚠️ Note: If you previously set a background color, transparency will override it.

Keep It Clean, Clear, and Branded

Great branding helps your product stand out on the shelf. Transparent label backgrounds won’t transform your packaging on their own, but they’re a useful tool to help you build a more unified, intentional brand presence.

Even though a lot of major brands still use black text on a white box, the ability to fine-tune your label, even subtly, can give your product an edge. Use this new feature to highlight your attention to detail and present your product in the best possible light.