Understanding the Most Recent Nutrition Label Changes
In 2016, the FDA announced the most significant changes to the Nutrition Facts label in over two decades, with full compliance phased in by 2021. These updates were designed to make the information on packaged foods more accessible and reflective of contemporary nutritional science. The primary goal was to empower consumers to make healthier, more informed decisions about their diets.
New Additions and Requirements
Among the most critical changes was the requirement to add several new items to the label that were not previously mandatory. These additions were based on national health data indicating common nutritional gaps in the American diet.
Added Sugars One of the most notable additions is the line for 'Added Sugars,' listed under 'Total Sugars' in grams and as a percent Daily Value (%DV). This differentiates between naturally occurring sugars and those added during processing, helping consumers understand the amount of added sugars in a product.
Vitamin D and Potassium Vitamin D and potassium are now required on the label because national data shows many Americans don't get enough. Low Vitamin D is linked to osteoporosis, and low potassium to high blood pressure. Vitamins A and C are no longer required as deficiencies are rare.
Design and Serving Size Updates
The label's visual layout was updated for prominence.
- Larger, Bolder Fonts: 'Calories,' 'Servings Per Container,' and 'Serving Size' text is now larger and bolder.
- Updated Serving Sizes: Serving sizes now reflect what people currently eat and drink, not what they should.
- Dual-Column Labels: Packages with more than one serving that could be eaten at once now have dual-column labels showing nutrition per serving and per package.
- 'Calories from Fat' Removed: This line was removed based on the understanding that the type of fat is more important than the total amount.
Updated Daily Values and Footnote
Daily Values (%DV) for many nutrients were updated based on current science. The footnote was revised for clarity, explaining %DV's contribution to a daily diet based on 2,000 calories.
Comparison: Old vs. New Nutrition Facts Label
| Feature | Old Label (pre-2020) | New Label (2020+) |
|---|---|---|
| Serving Size | Smaller font; outdated habits. | Larger, bolder; reflects modern consumption. |
| Calories | Standard font. | Larger, bolder font. |
| Added Sugars | Not included. | Added, with grams and %DV. |
| Vitamins Required | Vitamin A and Vitamin C. | Vitamin D and Potassium required; A and C voluntary. |
| Mineral Amounts | %DV only for some. | Actual gram/milligram amount declared for D, Calcium, Iron, Potassium, plus %DV. |
| 'Calories from Fat' | Included. | Removed. |
| Package Information | No dual-column. | Dual-column required for certain sizes. |
Conclusion: A More Informative and Modern Label
The latest changes modernize nutritional labels, aligning them with current science and dietary patterns. Adding 'added sugars,' Vitamin D, and potassium provides consumers with relevant data for health concerns. The improved design and updated serving sizes aid in making accurate and informed food choices. These enhancements make the label a more effective tool for public health. For more details, see the FDA's official guidance on the Nutrition Facts label.
