How to Read a Romanian Food Label: A Practical Guide

Supermarket shelves in Romania are full of products with detailed labels, but for newcomers—and even some locals—the mix of Romanian terms, European symbols and nutritional data can be puzzling. Understanding how to read a food label is a practical skill that helps you eat better, avoid allergens and reduce waste. This guide walks you through the key elements you will find on most packaged foods sold in Romania.

Mandatory Information on Every Label

By law, every pre-packed food item sold in Romania must display certain information clearly. This includes the product name, the list of ingredients in descending order of weight, any allergens highlighted, the net quantity, and either a 'use by' or 'best before' date. You will also find the name and address of the manufacturer or importer, the country of origin for certain foods, and a lot number for traceability.

The ingredients list is your first stop. Ingredients are listed from most to least by weight, so the first few items make up the bulk of the product. Allergens—such as gluten, milk, eggs, nuts, soy and celery—must be emphasised, often in bold or capital letters. Romania follows the EU list of 14 recognised allergens, so familiarise yourself with these if you have food sensitivities.

Common Romanian Terms on Food Labels

Here are some terms you will see frequently and what they mean:

• Fara zahar – sugar-free, though it may contain natural sugars or sweeteners.
• Cu indulcitori – with sweeteners (artificial or natural).
• Bio or ecologic – organic, certified under EU regulations; look for the green leaf logo.
• Proaspat – fresh, usually referring to short shelf-life products.
• Pasteurizat – pasteurised, meaning heat-treated to kill harmful bacteria.
• UHT – ultra-high temperature processed, allowing long storage without refrigeration until opened.
• Concentrat – concentrated, often for juices or soups that need dilution.
• Sare – salt; grasimi – fats; carbohidrati – carbohydrates; proteine – protein; fibre – fibre; energie – energy (calories).

Understanding the Nutrition Table

Most products include a nutrition declaration per 100 grams or 100 millilitres, and sometimes per portion. It typically lists energy (in kilojoules and kilocalories), fat, saturates, carbohydrates, sugars, protein and salt. Some also show the percentage of the reference intake, which helps you see how a portion contributes to your daily needs. Note that a 'portion' may be smaller than what you actually eat, so adjust accordingly.

Expiry Dates: 'Use By' vs 'Best Before'

There are two types of date marks. The 'a se consuma inainte de' or 'expira la' (use by) is about safety—do not eat after this date, common on fresh meat, dairy and ready meals. The 'a se consuma de preferinta inainte de' (best before) is about quality—the product may lose flavour or texture but is often safe to eat after that date if stored properly. Understanding the difference can help you reduce food waste while staying safe.

Storage Instructions and Other Symbols

Labels often include storage guidance like 'a se pastra la loc uscat si racoros' (store in a cool, dry place) or 'a se pastra la frigider dupa deschidere' (refrigerate after opening). You might also see symbols for recycling, vegetarian suitability, or the EU organic logo. If a product claims to be 'traditional' or 'homemade', check the ingredients list to see if it matches your expectations.

Learning to read Romanian food labels takes a little practice, but it empowers you to make healthier, more informed choices. Next time you shop, take a moment to flip the package and decode what you are really buying.