On June 6, 2025, Google updated its Recipe Schema.org documentation to provide more precise instructions regarding how image-related structured data influences visibility in search results. This change offers a clearer understanding of what image attributes affect rich results and which factors play a role in organic text result rankings.
Understanding Structured Data and Search Visibility
In SEO and publishing circles, “text results” typically refer to the familiar organic search listings, often called the “ten blue links.” Google’s structured data helps websites qualify for enhanced display formats known as rich results. However, structured data generally does not impact how a page ranks in the standard text results.
Google’s recent documentation update introduces two important clarifications:
“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 means that while recipe structured data can affect which images appear in the Recipe Rich Results, it does not influence which image is selected for the standard organic listings.
Read Also: Marketing to Algorithms: Thriving in the Age of Autonomous AI Agents
Image Rankings in Organic Results
Google has separate documentation outlining image SEO best practices. These include using standard HTML image tags such as <img> and <picture>, as well as submitting an image-specific sitemap.
One key recommendation is to avoid using blurry or unclear images. High-quality, sharp visuals are more likely to appear in search results. While some web developers intentionally blur images to reduce file size or create visual depth, Google advises prioritizing clarity.
From Google’s own image optimization guidance:
“High-quality photos appeal to users more than blurry, unclear images. Also, sharp images are more appealing to users in the result thumbnail and can increase the likelihood of getting traffic from users.”
Although Google doesn’t explicitly list image sharpness as a ranking factor, its repeated emphasis on image clarity suggests it plays a meaningful role in determining which visuals appear in search.
Takeaway
Google’s latest refinement to the Recipe Schema documentation underscores a crucial distinction: structured data helps recipes qualify for rich results but does not determine image selection for organic text listings. For publishers, following Google’s image best practices—especially using sharp, high-quality images—remains essential for improving visibility and engagement in search results.
Read Also: AI Content Optimization: How to Make Your Website Visible to AI Search and Agents
Never Miss a Story: Join Our Newsletter
