LOS ANGELES - The FDA unveiled a proposal Tuesday to require front-of-package nutrition labels on most packaged foods, a major step in combating chronic diseases.
The labels, called "Nutrition Info boxes," will display simple, color-coded information about saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars, helping consumers make healthier choices.
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Officials hope this initiative, part of a broader effort to reduce diet-related diseases, will empower shoppers to better manage their health while encouraging food manufacturers to reformulate their products.
What's next:
The FDA's proposed rule would mandate the inclusion of a "Nutrition Info box" on the front of most packaged foods sold in the U.S. The labels will categorize the levels of saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars as "Low," "Med," or "High."
According to the FDA, these nutrients are directly linked to chronic diseases when consumed in excess. By simplifying access to this information, the agency aims to help consumers quickly assess a product's healthfulness at a glance.
Big picture view:
Chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes are the leading causes of death in the U.S., accounting for 60% of all cases and $4.5 trillion in annual healthcare costs. The FDA views the proposed labels as a key tool in curbing the consumption of ultra-processed foods high in harmful nutrients.
FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf emphasized, "Adding front-of-package nutrition labeling to most packaged foods will make it easier for consumers to glance, grab and go."
If finalized, the rule would require large companies to comply within three years, while smaller businesses would have an additional year. The FDA hopes the new labels will push manufacturers to create healthier products, similar to the impact of the agency's recent sodium reduction targets.
Deputy Commissioner Jim Jones stated, "We hope manufacturers will reformulate products to be healthier in response to front-of-package nutrition labeling."
Why you should care:
The FDA says the proposal is part of the White House National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health, aiming to reduce diet-related diseases by 2030. It builds on recent FDA initiatives like updated "healthy" claims and voluntary sodium reduction targets, creating a comprehensive approach to improving the U.S. food supply.