Both layouts are FDA Nutrition Facts formats. Standard Vertical is the full stacked panel most packaged foods use. Simplified Display is a shorter vertical panel for foods that contain insignificant amounts of eight or more of the mandatory nutrients — so those lines can be omitted.
The difference in one paragraph
Standard Vertical shows the full nutrient set shoppers expect (calories, fats, sodium, carbohydrate including fiber and added sugars, protein, and the core vitamins/minerals). Simplified Display still says “Nutrition Facts” and still lists calories and the nutrients that are present in meaningful amounts, but it does not pretend the product has a complete vitamin panel if those values are insignificant under FDA rules.
When simplified display is allowed
FDA simplified format is for foods with insignificant amounts of eight or more of the mandatory nutrients (examples people search: some spices, plain coffee, certain candies — your product may or may not qualify). “Insignificant” is defined in the regulations, not by what looks tidy on a jar. If you make a nutrient content claim (“low sodium,” “high fiber”), you generally cannot hide that nutrient on a simplified panel.
- Open Simplified Display only after you confirm the product qualifies.
- If you are unsure, use Standard Vertical. It is never “wrong” for a typical packaged food.
When to stay on Standard Vertical
Use Standard Vertical for almost all meals, snacks, sauces, baked goods, and beverages that have a normal nutrient profile. Use other special formats (linear, dual column, infant) for package size or audience — not because simplified “looks cleaner.”
Side-by-side vitamins on a full vertical label is a different option: micronutrients listed side-by-side.
Make either format here
Preview both for free and compare how your numbers look. PDF download is paid. This tool does not certify that simplified format is allowed for your SKU.
Next: step-by-step how to make a label.
FAQ
Is simplified the same as “no Nutrition Facts required”?
No. Exemption from labeling and simplified format are different questions. Cottage food is another layer — see cottage food labels.
Can I omit added sugars on simplified?
Only if the nutrient is insignificant under the rules and you are not making a related claim. Do not omit it to save space.
Confirm simplified-format eligibility in 21 CFR 101.9 before you print a shortened panel.
