What are the legal requirements for advertising and selling of food and beverage products?

Advertising and selling food and beverage products in the state of Washington is subject to certain legal requirements. Federal and state laws regulate what can be advertised to the public and how it can be sold. Food and beverage products must meet the requirements set forth in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or the Washington State Food Services Act. For example, all food and beverage products must be safe for human consumption and must have proper labeling that complies with these acts. Ads must not misrepresent products or falsely advertise them as safe, healthful, or nutritious. Advertising and selling food and beverage products to minors, those under the age of 18, is subject to additional regulations. Advertising to minors needs to be age appropriate and may not be directed to encourage the purchase of such products by minors. In addition, food and beverage vendors may not give away free samples of such products to minors. Finally, food and beverage vendors must also comply with other applicable federal and state laws, such as the Consumer Protection Act, the Commercial Speech Act, the Fair Trade Practices Act, and the Unfair Business Practices Act. Such laws prohibit deceptive or unfair practices and false advertising, and provide remedies for consumers harmed by such practices.

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What are the legal requirements for advertising and selling of food and beverage products?

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