It’s been nearly two decades since nutrition labels have had a makeover, and not because they haven’t needed one, but because the government doesn’t require a re-evaluation. But the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has finally stepped up and is mandating that within the next three years food and supplement labels be changed to reflect current guidelines.
What’s Changing on Nutrition Labels?
The FDA hopes that the following changes will help reduce rising rates of obesity in America. Currently two-thirds of American adults are overweight or obese!
FDA Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf stated: “The updated label makes improvements to this valuable resource so consumers can make more informed food choices…one of the most important steps a person can take to reduce the risk of heart disease and obesity.”
- Calorie content will be more noticeable with a bolder font
- Serving size will be more straightforward and more accurately reflect the serving size normally eaten
- Nutrients that Americans are deficient in, such as vitamin D and potassium, will take center stage on nutrition labels
- Values of calcium and iron will be noted on all labels
- Vitamins C and A will be removed, as most Americans get plenty of these two vitamins
Only time will tell how effective these changes to food and supplement labels will be, but government research shows that approximately 77% of Americans look at labels. Hopefully with such a high percentage of visibility, more people will take charge of their health and use these new nutrition labels to empower their wellness choices.
