Do food samples require a "Not for Retail Sale" statement?

Simple, concise answers only:

Pulling my hair out regarding food product sample labeling requirements. Does the package require a statement of "Not for Retail Sale"?

If yes - please reference the part of CFR that has this information.

Perishable or non-perishable product?

See this previous thread, specially post # 2;

https://www.ifsqn.co...not-for-resale/

I went through the same thing a few years ago, with samples to be distributed at a trade show.  I talked to someone at the FDA (imagine that!) and was told that you should have the company name and address, product name, and ingredient statement/declaration (including allergens) on sample products.  You don't need to label them "not for sale" (or variation thereof).

Technically in general, if you aren't selling something, it hasn't been introduced "to commerce", so FSIS/FDA has no authority to regulate it.

Make sure the samples are produced safely and include an ingredient statement so that those with allergens/sensitivities can avoid any problematic ingredients. If you're distributing samples to large groups of people and the product is perishable, you may end up under a food retailer license with your state, but I suspect that is not your situation.

If this is a meat/egg product in the US, potentially you fall under FSIS' experimental sample guidance.

IF you are attaching this "sample" to a sold product, then it is also a sold product and must comply with all labeling.

Some additional discussion here: https://www.ifsqn.co...not-for-resale/