Why the Nutrition Facts Label Was Updated
For over two decades, the original Nutrition Facts label served as a vital tool for consumers. However, dietary habits and scientific understanding of nutrition have evolved significantly. The updated label reflects new scientific evidence and the link between diet and chronic diseases. The goal is to provide more relevant and useful information to help consumers make healthier food choices in their daily lives.
Prominent Changes to the Design
Immediately noticeable are the design modifications aimed at improving readability. The number of 'Calories' and the 'Serving size' are now presented in a larger, bolder font. The 'Servings Per Container' is also more prominently displayed. The 'Calories from Fat' line has been removed.
The Addition of 'Added Sugars'
One of the most significant changes is the mandatory listing of 'Added Sugars' in grams and as a percent Daily Value (%DV). This helps consumers distinguish between sugars naturally present in foods and those added during processing. Given the recommendation to limit added sugars to less than 10% of daily calories, this information is crucial for managing intake.
Updated Serving Sizes and Dual-Column Labels
Serving sizes on the new label are now based on how much people actually eat and drink, rather than recommended amounts. For example, the serving size for ice cream increased from a half-cup to two-thirds of a cup. Dual-column labels are required for packages that might be consumed in one sitting but contain more than one serving.
Mandatory Vitamins and Minerals Reflect Public Health Concerns
Based on updated science and consumption data, Vitamin D and Potassium are now required on the label, in addition to Calcium and Iron. Vitamins A and C, previously mandatory, are no longer required.
Comparison of Old vs. New Nutrition Facts Label
The updated Nutrition Facts label includes several key changes compared to the old label, such as a different design with larger, bolder text for calories and serving size, and the removal of the "Calories from Fat" line. A major addition is the mandatory listing of Added Sugars, including grams and %DV. Serving sizes are now based on actual consumption. The required vitamins and minerals have changed, with Vitamin D and Potassium now mandatory in addition to Calcium and Iron. Daily Values have also been updated. The footnote provides a clearer explanation of %DV, and dual-column labels are now required for certain packages. For a detailed comparison, please see the {Link: FDA website https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-food-labeling-and-critical-foods/changes-nutrition-facts-label}.
The Revised Footnote and Daily Values
The footnote now provides a clearer explanation of the % Daily Value. The Daily Values used to calculate the %DV have also been updated.
Making the Most of the New Label
To effectively use the new label, pay attention to the bolded calories and serving size. Check the 'Added Sugars' to monitor your intake of extra sweeteners. Look for lower %DV in saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars, and higher %DV in dietary fiber, Vitamin D, Potassium, Calcium, and Iron. For larger packages, the dual-column label simplifies understanding the nutritional content of the entire package. Utilizing these features helps in making informed food choices.
Conclusion
The updated Nutrition Facts label offers clearer, more relevant information to support public health. Key changes like the addition of 'Added Sugars,' mandatory Vitamin D and Potassium listing, and modernized serving sizes address contemporary dietary concerns. This revised label is a valuable tool for consumers aiming to make healthier food choices and better manage their diet. Understanding and using these updates can help individuals make informed decisions at the grocery store for improved health.
