What does the e symbol on foods actually represent?
The e symbol on foods is a declaration by the packer that the contents comply with the “average system”. On foods, the e symbol is used to ensure the consumer is fully aware that the weight is compliant with the Weights and Measures Regulations 2006. Basically, the weight on the packet is within a small margin of inaccuracy.
The three rules that must be adhered to are:
The contents of the packages must not be less on average than the nominal quantity
The proportion of packages which are short of the stated quantity by more than a defined amount (the ‘tolerable negative error’) should be less than a specified level
No package should be short by twice the tolerable negative error
The weights have to be within these margins:
Amount (g or ml) between
Accepted margin
5
50
9%
50
100
4-5 g
100
200
4-5 %
200
300
9 g
300
500
3 %
500
1000
15 g
1000
10000
1-5 %
For example, if the food packaging stated 35g, the food must be within 9% which is 31.85g—38.15g.
It is used to ensure that the consumer knows the weight of the product may not be exactly the same as the weight indicated on the packaging. The e symbol is only used in Europe.
For further information, please consult with your local Trading Standards Department at your local council offices.
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Orexis Fresh Foods
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