FDA Suggests New Nutrition Labeling on Food Products
The agency suggests implementing a new label that draws more attention to the connection between nutrition and chronic diseases.
According to a press release from the FDA, the agency has proposed an update to nutrition labels on packaged foods. The agency would like to see an updated label that draws more attention to the connection between diet/nutrition and chronic diseases such as obesity and heart disease. In addition, the FDA would like to see a redesigned label that draws more attention to serving sizes that align with how people actually eat today.
The new label would primarily highlight serving sizes and calories with a bigger, bolder font for these two areas. According to the press release, the newly proposed label would have to include information on added sugars, update serving sizes, have a dual column for "per serving" and "per package," outline the values of potassium and vitamin D, revise Daily Values, remove calories from fat, and refresh the format.
According to FDA Commissioner Margaret A. Hamburg, M.D., "For 20 years consumers have come to rely on the iconic nutrition label to help them make healthier food choices. To remain relevant, the FDA's newly proposed Nutrition Facts label incorporates the latest in nutrition science as more has been learned about the connection between what we eat and the development of serious chronic diseases impacting millions of Americans."