Google has recently updated its structured data guidelines, introducing important changes for how events and recipes appear in search results. These updates are especially relevant for SEO professionals and webmasters who rely on structured data to boost visibility and engagement.
Key Changes in Event Structured Data
Google has removed support for online event properties from its structured data documentation. To be eligible for the enhanced event experience in Google Search, events must now meet the following criteria:
- Publicly Bookable: Open to the general public.
- Held at a Physical Location: Online-only events are no longer supported.
This marks a shift in how virtual events are treated. If your event content is still using online event markup, it’s time to remove it to stay compliant. Google has also added examples to clarify what events qualify.
Recipe Structured Data: Image Clarification
Google also clarified that the image property in Recipe structured data does not determine which image appears in standard text results. Instead:
“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.”
In other words, structured data alone won’t decide the image Google displays, you’ll need strong image SEO for that.
Why It Matters
These updates are a reminder that Google’s search features are always evolving. To keep your content eligible for rich results:
- Event Organizers: Reassess your markup if you’ve listed virtual events.
- Recipe Publishers: Pair your structured data with optimized, high-quality images.
Take Action: Implement Structured Data the Right Way
Structured data is one of the most effective ways to enhance your presence in Google Search. By marking up your content correctly, you make it easier for search engines to understand and showcase your site with rich features like recipe cards, event listings, and more.
Need help getting started? Contact us today and we will help you implement structured data correctly