On February 27, 2014, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (“FDA”) moved to update nutrition facts labels (“Nutrition Facts Panels”) on packaged foods and dietary supplements. The proposal was prompted by recent scientific findings that suggest there is a direct correlation between excessive food intake and recurring diseases, like heart disease and obesity. In addition, the proposed labeling will replace outdated serving sizes to help deliver a better perception of actual food intake by consumers today. The proposed Nutrition Facts Panels will provide a new, unique approach that highlights certain parts of the label like serving sizes, ingredients and caloric intake. A complete The FDA press release, explaining this proposal can be accessed here.
Recommending the change, the FDA’s proposal will impact the labels of foods and dietary supplements throughout the United States. First established 20 years ago, nutrition facts labels assist consumers with making knowledgeable food choices and provide a uniform means of displaying information to consumers. If implemented, the new nutrition facts label would include amended serving size specifications, differing label requirements for some package sizes, and an updated design. Additional information about current nutrition facts labels and the proposed changes to nutrition facts labels can be accessed here.
Without question, ensuring compliant labeling of foods is important for manufacturers and sellers of foods and dietary supplements doing business in the United States. For example, FDA often detains shipments of foods and dietary supplements upon being offered for importation solely for failure to comply with labeling requirements. Accordingly, keeping abreast of all changes to the regulations pertaining to nutrition facts labels is critical in order to ensure implementation of any new regulatory requirements. If you have any questions pertaining to labeling of foods and/or dietary supplements and are in need of an FDA lawyer, please contact us at contact@sglawfl.com.
