max-snippet:0 is nosnippet by another name. It permits a snippet of zero characters, so the practical effect is no snippet and no AI-feature eligibility. max-snippet:0 is functionally equivalent to nosnippet, no snippet permitted. Same effect as nosnippet: removes snippet eligibility and therefore AI-feature input eligibility.
Why does max-snippet:0 directive matter for AI search?
Same effect as nosnippet: removes snippet eligibility and therefore AI-feature input eligibility.
How do you fix it?
Set max-snippet to -1 (Google’s choice) or a positive length, or remove it.
How do you find it on your site?
- Search the robots meta tag and X-Robots-Tag header for max-snippet:0.
- Treat it exactly as you would nosnippet.
- Check whether a plugin set it globally by mistake.
- Replace it with a positive max-snippet value or remove it.
Which ranking and citation factors does it touch?
Same effect as nosnippet for AI visibility. The page can rank but cannot be quoted, which defeats the purpose for answer-led search.
What is the impact?
Severe/blocking for snippet and AI eligibility. Direct.
What is the evidence?
Conflicting/equivalent: max-snippet:0 ≈ nosnippet; nosnippet governs AI-feature input. Google Search Central, Robots Meta Tags Specifications
Frequently asked questions about max-snippet:0 directive
What does "max-snippet:0 directive" mean?
max-snippet:0 is functionally equivalent to nosnippet, no snippet permitted.
How do you fix max-snippet:0 directive?
Set max-snippet to -1 (Google’s choice) or a positive length, or remove it.