Where should a date code go on a food label?

A date code should be placed where it remains readable after application, does not curve too tightly and can be printed, stamped or written consistently.

Should lot numbers be printed in the artwork?

Fixed lot numbers should not usually be printed into every label design if the code changes by batch. Many buyers leave a clear code area for later marking.

Can date code areas be added to roll labels?

Yes. Roll labels can include a reserved date or lot code area, but the label direction and application method should be checked before production.

Date Code and Lot Number Labels for Food Packaging

Last updated: September 14, 2026 | Best for: date code labels, lot number labels, food packaging labels, sandwich labels, bakery labels, jar labels and roll labels.

Written and reviewed by the Custom Label Factory production team. Based on packaging specifications, artwork checks and label production experience.

Food package label with space for date code and lot number planning

Short answer

Reserve date code and lot number space before label printing, especially when the code changes by batch. The area should be readable, high contrast, away from tight curves and compatible with the marking method used after the labels are printed.

Production checkpoint: if the code changes every batch, keep it out of the fixed artwork and reserve a clean marking area instead.

Where date and lot codes usually go

The best location depends on the package and how the label is applied. A back label often gives more room for batch information, while small front labels may need a dedicated blank box or line. Avoid placing code areas across a strong curve, seam or fold.

Back label panel for jars, bottles and sauces.
Bottom or side area on food boxes and sandwich packs.
Blank white panel on dark or colorful designs.
Near barcode or product information when scanning and review happen together.

Code area planning table

Package type	Common code area	What to avoid
Jar or bottle	Back label, side panel or small blank box.	Tight curves, label edges and textured glass.
Sandwich or takeaway pack	Flat top label or side label field.	Wrinkles, lid seams and areas touched during opening.
Bakery box	Seal label, side sticker or back information label.	Fold lines and surfaces that flex during closing.
Pouch or bag	Back label or lower front field.	Heat seal zones, folds and glossy areas with poor marking contrast.

Readable codes need contrast and space

Small text can fail when the code is placed over artwork, gradients or dark backgrounds. A simple white or light field can make later marking easier to see. If the package uses clear film, confirm whether the code field needs white ink behind it for readability.

What to confirm before proof approval

Code typeBest-before date, packed date, roast date, batch code or lot number.

Marking methodHandwriting, stamp, thermal printer, inkjet or separate sticker.

Label positionFront, back, side, lid, seal area or wraparound panel.

Production setupRoll direction, co-packer requirement, SKU count and extra setup labels.

Related guides

For full label layout planning, read food label layout requirements. For barcode spacing, review barcode and QR code labels. If a co-packer applies the labels, use the co-packer label checklist.

FAQ

Should date code space be on the front label?

It can be, but many packages keep date and lot codes on the back or side so the front brand design stays clean.

Can the date code be added after labels are printed?

Yes, many buyers reserve a blank field so the code can be marked later by batch. The marking method should be tested on the chosen material.

Do date code labels need a special material?

The material should match the package environment first. Then confirm that the date or lot code can be marked clearly on that surface.

Plan Date Code Labels View Artwork Guidelines