In the past I’ve talked about food labels and how they can help you choose which food product best meets your nutritional needs. Now a new food labeling tool will bring nutrition information from the Nutrition Facts Panel on the back of packages, up to the front.
Facts Up Front is a new front of package tool that is reflected by icons that call out key nutrients so that you can more easily compare products. Facts Up Front is a joint effort of the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) and the Food Marketing Institute (FMI). GMA is the organization that represents food and beverage companies and FMI represents food wholesalers and retailers. Together they have partnered to develop Facts Up Front and the educational campaign that supports it. I have been a member of the Facts Up Front Advisory group since its inception which has allowed me to review the science behind this new labeling and provide guidance on to best educate consumers on how to make this new tool work for them.
Find out what's happening in University Cityfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Packages that carry the Facts Up Front label must show four nutrients – Calories, Saturated Fat, Sodium and Sugars (exceptions are made for small packages, which may only show calories). Food manufacturers may opt to add up to two additional nutrients out of list of 8 nutrients, only if those nutrients provide a good source (at least 10% of the Daily Value) of the nutrient.
Find out what's happening in University Cityfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The four nutrients that must appear on every Facts Up Front label are those which consumers should limit, since most people consume above and beyond what’s recommended in the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The optional nutrients are those we need to consume more of, such as calcium, potassium, fiber and vitamin D, as they are associated with many health benefits.
If you haven’t yet seen this new labeling start searching for it on packages in your store, and if you’d like to learn more visit www.factsupfront.org. In addition to information about the labels, the site features a nutrition calculator, recipes and shopping tips.
Connie Diekman, M.Ed., RD, CSSD, LD, FAND
Nutrition Communications Consultant