R3337 Food Classification
Labeling and Dating Regulations
Regulation 3337 (R3337) of the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act (Act 54 of 1972) provides regulations relating to the labeling and advertising of foodstuffs. This regulation ensures consumers receive accurate information about food products, including dates of minimum durability, storage conditions, and ingredients.
Dating Requirements
"Use By" Date
Required for highly perishable foods that may pose immediate health risks after the date.
- • Fresh meat and poultry
- • Fresh fish and seafood
- • Prepared salads
- • Dairy products
"Best Before" Date
Indicates when the product may lose optimal quality but remains safe to consume.
- • Canned goods
- • Dry pasta and grains
- • Snack foods
- • Frozen foods
Mandatory Label Information
Product Name
The name must accurately describe the true nature of the foodstuff and not mislead consumers about its characteristics.
Date Marking
All pre-packaged foods must display either a "best before" or "use by" date in the format DD/MM/YYYY or an approved alternative.
Ingredients List
Ingredients must be listed in descending order by weight. Allergens must be clearly indicated.
Storage Conditions
Special storage conditions or conditions of use must be clearly indicated on the label.
EcoFeed Nexus Compliance
Our platform ensures R3337 compliance through automated date tracking, proper classification, and transparent product information.
- Automatic expiry date tracking and alerts
- Safety classification (safe/monitor/critical) based on expiry
- Clear product descriptions and ingredient transparency
- Automated level promotion based on expiry proximity
EcoFeed Nexus Level System
Our 5-level triage system automatically classifies products based on expiry dates, ensuring R3337 compliance while maximizing food rescue opportunities.
Level 1
> 5 days
Full Price
Level 2
2-5 days
20-40% Off
Level 3
12h-2 days
50-70% Off
Level 4
< 12 hours
Free Donation
Level 5
Expired
Waste Recovery
Legal Reference
Regulation 3337 - Regulations Relating to the Labeling and Advertising of Foodstuffs, promulgated under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act, 1972 (Act 54 of 1972).
For the complete regulation text, visit the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development.
