What’s On the New Nutrition Labels? Here’s a Guide to the Changes

As you may have heard, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced some major changes to the Nutrition Facts Panel label. Why? Our diets have changed since the nutritional panels were introduced about 20 years ago, so the FDA has decided to require updated labeling on packages to reflect these dietary changes.

Designed to modernize and update the current nutritional facts panel, expect to see these new changes popping up on our food labels in the next year or two, with all labels to be changed by July 2018.  So, what can you expect to see?

• A More Prominent Display of Serving Size. The labels will more accurately reflect serving sizes that people actually eat. Currently, the serving size on labels show the recommended amount for people to consume, but not necessarily the amount we do consume. The serving size for juice has not changed. It will continue to be 8 ounces.
• Calories Change. You’ll see the calories on the label will be in a larger, bold font. ‘Calories from Fat’ will no longer be listed.
• Total Sugars and Added Sugars. The “Total Carbohydrate” section will now include “Total Sugars” as well as a breakout for added sugars. A Percent Daily Value will also be shown for Added Sugars.
• Dual Column Labeling. Some products will now have a second column on its label. If a package includes more than one serving, but equal to or less than 3 servings and could still be consumed in one sitting, it is required to include  nutrition information for   “per serving” and “per package”.   
• Differences in Nutrients / Vitamin labeling. Potassium and Vitamin D will now be listed on the label, but Vitamin A and Vitamin C will no longer be required. The Percent Daily Value on the label will be updated to help consumers understand how this food will fit into their overall diet.

For more information, visit the FDA website: http://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/GuidanceDocumentsRegulatoryInformation/LabelingNutrition/ucm385663.htm