Average weight and the ℮ mark: the packers' rules
Most packed food in the UK is filled under the average quantity system. It allows small variation in each pack, as long as you meet three rules and can show how.
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The three packers' rules
- The actual contents of the packs must not be less, on average, than the stated quantity.
- Only a small proportion of packs may fall short by more than the tolerable negative error (TNE).
- No pack may fall short by more than twice the TNE.
These come from the Weights and Measures (Packaged Goods) Regulations 2006 and apply to packs of a constant stated quantity from 5 g to 25 kg.
Tolerable negative errors
| Stated quantity | TNE |
|---|---|
| 5 to 50 g | 9% |
| 50 to 100 g | 4.5 g |
| 100 to 200 g | 4.5% |
| 200 to 300 g | 9 g |
| 300 to 500 g | 3% |
| 500 g to 1 kg | 15 g |
| 1 to 10 kg | 1.5% |
Example: a 300 g tub has a TNE of 9 g. Packs under 291 g count as non-standard, and none may be under 282 g.
The ℮ mark
The ℮ mark next to the quantity shows the pack was filled under the average system. It's optional for the UK market, but if you use it, you must meet the rules and keep records of your checks.
What you need in place
- A documented checking system, such as sample weighing during each run, with records.
- Calibrated scales.
- Trading Standards can test your packs and ask to see your records.
Capsules and tablets sold by number aren't filled by weight. The count must be accurate, so see our page on minimum quantity.
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ProofMyLabel is an automated pre-check, not regulatory sign-off or legal advice. The food business operator remains responsible for the packaging.