What must be examined to determine if a product is misbranded?

To determine whether a product is misbranded, the accuracy of its labeling is the primary factor to consider. The labeling must provide truthful and not misleading information about the product, including its identity, ingredients, usage instructions, and other necessary details that inform consumers. Misbranding can occur when the label is false or incomplete, or if it fails to include adequate directions for use, warnings, or other important information.

Labeling accuracy is essential because it directly impacts consumer safety and the effectiveness of medication or product use. Regulatory bodies, like the FDA, enforce strict guidelines regarding labeling to protect consumers from misinformation. Therefore, assessing the labeling is central to identifying misbranding.

While factors such as expiration dates, packaging conditions, and storage requirements are important in ensuring a product's safety and efficacy, they do not individually determine whether a product is misbranded. Their relevance is more about product quality and compliance during handling rather than the veracity of the information presented on the label itself.