Google Updates Recipe Schema Guidelines with Clarifications on Image Optimization
Google has revised its documentation for Recipe Schema.org structured data to provide clearer guidance on how image markup affects search results. The update specifically clarifies that while structured data influences images displayed in rich results, it does not impact image selection for standard organic search listings.
Key Changes to Recipe Schema Documentation
The updated guidelines now include two critical sentences:
- “Specifying the image property in Recipe markup has no impact on the image chosen for a text result image.”
- “To optimize for a text result image, follow the image SEO best practices.”
This distinction reinforces Google’s long-standing position that structured data primarily enhances eligibility for rich results rather than improving rankings in traditional “10 blue links” text-based search results.
Best Practices for Organic Search Images
For publishers aiming to optimize images for standard search results, Google recommends:
Using standard HTML elements (<img> and <picture>)
Submitting image sitemaps
Prioritizing high-quality, sharp visuals over blurred alternatives
The search engine’s image optimization guidelines explicitly state: “High-quality photos appeal to users more than blurry, unclear images… sharp images are more appealing in result thumbnails and can increase traffic potential.”
Industry Observations
While Google hasn’t confirmed blurry images as a direct ranking factor, anecdotal evidence from SEO professionals suggests blurred visuals may negatively impact visibility in search results. The updated documentation appears to validate these observations by emphasizing visual clarity as a user experience priority.
The changes reflect Google’s ongoing efforts to clarify how different optimization techniques affect various search result formats, helping content creators make more informed technical decisions.
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