Mandatory Nutrient Requirements: A Global View
Food labeling requirements are not uniform worldwide and are governed by different regulatory bodies. While the primary goal is to provide transparent, standardized information about a food's nutritional content, the specific information and presentation on a nutrition information panel can differ depending on the country. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets the standards, while the European Union (EU) and the UK follow their own specific regulations.
Which Nutrients Must Be Listed in the US (FDA) Nutrition Panel?
In the United States, the Nutrition Facts label requires a comprehensive list of nutrients. This list was updated in 2016 to better reflect modern nutritional science, including new components like 'added sugars'. The mandatory nutrients declared on the panel include Calories, Total Fat, Saturated Fat, Trans Fat, Cholesterol, Sodium, Total Carbohydrate, Dietary Fiber, Total Sugars, Added Sugars, and Protein. Additionally, the FDA requires the declaration of four key micronutrients: Vitamin D, Calcium, Iron, and Potassium, as Americans often do not get enough of these.
Mandatory Nutrients in the UK and EU (The "Big 7")
For products sold within the UK and EU, Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 harmonizes requirements. The mandatory list, known as the "Big 7," includes Energy Value (in kJ and kcal), Fat, Saturates, Carbohydrate, Sugars, Protein, and Salt. This information is typically presented per 100g or 100ml for easy comparison.
Comparison of Mandatory Nutrition Panels: US vs. UK/EU
A comparison of mandatory nutrients on US and UK/EU nutrition panels shows differences in required listings, such as the inclusion of specific vitamins and 'added sugars' on US labels versus 'salt' and the 'Big 7' on UK/EU labels. A full comparison table is available on the {Link: FDA website https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-facts-label/daily-value-nutrition-and-supplement-facts-labels}.
Voluntary Nutrients and Additional Label Information
Beyond mandatory nutrients, manufacturers can voluntarily include additional information. For example, in the US, Vitamin A and C may be included but are not required. In the UK and EU, voluntary additions can include mono- and polyunsaturated fats, polyols, starch, and fibre. However, if a claim is made about a nutrient (e.g., "high in fibre"), it must be listed.
The Role of % Daily Value (%DV) or Reference Intake (RI)
Both US and UK/EU labeling use a percentage system to provide context. The US uses Percent Daily Value (%DV), based on a 2,000-calorie diet, while the UK/EU uses Reference Intake (RI). Generally, 5% DV or less is low, and 20% DV or more is high.
How to Interpret the Nutrition Information Panel for Better Health
To effectively use the nutrition information panel, check the serving size, compare products using 'per 100g' or 'per 100ml' values, identify key nutrients, and use the %DV or RI to quickly assess nutrient levels. Also, look for voluntary information if you have specific dietary needs.
Conclusion
Knowing which nutrients must be listed in the nutrition information panel is crucial for making informed dietary choices. While the mandatory lists differ between regions like the US and the UK/EU, both systems offer a clear framework for evaluating food products. By understanding the core components, interpreting %DV or RI, and comparing products consistently, consumers can effectively use the nutrition panel to support their nutritional diet and health goals.
For more detailed information, the FDA's guidance on the Nutrition Facts label is a valuable resource.
