USFDA update the Nutrition Facts label for packaged foods

• 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.”

• The proposed updates reflect new dietary recommendations, consensus reports, and national survey data By revamping the Nutrition Facts label, FDA wants to make it easier than ever for consumers to make better informed food choices that will support a healthy diet.

• The changes proposed today affect all packaged foods except certain meat, poultry and processed egg products, which are regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service.

• The FDA is also proposing to make corresponding updates to the Supplement Facts label on dietary supplements where applicable.

• The agency is accepting public comment on the proposed changes for 90 days.

CURRENT FORMAT PROPOSED FORMAT

• The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans states that intake of added sugar is too high in the U.S. population and should be reduced

PROPOSED FORMAT

•By law, serving sizes must be based on what people actually eat, not on what people “should” be eating.

• Require the declaration of potassium and vitamin D, nutrients that some in the U.S. population are not getting enough of, which puts them at higher risk for chronic disease. Vitamin D is important for its role in bone health. Potassium is beneficial in lowering blood pressure.

• Revise the Daily Values for a variety of nutrients such as sodium, dietary fiber and Vitamin D

• “Calories from Fat” would be removed because research shows the type of fat is more important than the amount

Refresh the format to emphasize certain elements, such as calories, serving sizes and Percent Daily Value, which are important in addressing current public health problems like obesity and heart disease.