The scientific evidence that diet is related to chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes, prompted the FDA to publish new rules for the nutrition facts label. For large food manufacturers, it is mandatory that the new label appear on packaged products by January 1st, 2020. The goal of the new food label is to make it easier for consumers to make informed food choices. The changes to the food label include larger font for serving size and calorie information, as well as updated serving size and daily values.

Nutrients required to appear on the label are now vitamin D, calcium, iron and potassium, instead of, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. Potentially, the most beneficial change for consumers is the addition of added sugars denoted on the label. Manufacturers are required to call out the amount of added sugar in their products. These changes will make food labels easier for consumers to read and compare products, hopefully leading to better food choices.

To read the full article released by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration click here.