Nutrition Facts labels are finally getting a much needed remake. I’m so glad, because I always found this label to have things on it that weren’t really relative and somewhat deceptive. The proposed update, was announced in March. This is the first major revision in 20 years. I’m guessing this is part of the first lady’s continuing efforts to address the obesity epidemic and to help Americans improve the eating habits. The new label is under review and is awaiting final approval. The new labels will be required in a few years; so you won’t see the new label immediately.
So, what does the new label entail?
First- Serving sizes will be more reflective of what is the actual amount people consume of that product. I’ve always thought it was strange that they could manipulate the serving size in order to make it appear as if there was less sugar than it actually has in the amount you are consuming.
Second- They are removing the calories from fat. They are finally acknowledging that it’s the type of fat that is important not the amount of fat.
Third- They are finally are finally addressing the “added” sugar in foods. There are natural sugars in food, like fruit or milk. Then there are “added” sugar that are added to the product during processing which contribute to weight gain. They are putting the “added” sugar on the label! One teaspoon of sugar can shut down the immune system for up to 5 hours. So, knowing how much “sugar” is in the food is incredibly helpful for anyone needing to maintain a healthy immune system.
Fourth- Vitamin D and potassium are being added to the label. These nutrients are vital to maintaining a range of health benefits, like maintaining a healthy blood pressure or bone health. So, they are finally putting them on the label in hopes that it can help people purchase more health providing foods.
These new guidelines aren’t perfect, but they are a change for the better. I’m still wishing they wouldn’t allow trans fats or artificial sweeteners to be added in such small amounts (less than .5 grams) to a serving that they can claim 0 grams. I feel that is very deceptive. So, just be aware that they are able to do this to the products without listing those ingredients on the label when it is in such small amounts. I feel that even in these small amounts they can be harmful to the body.
So, with that said, it is a step in the right direction and I’m happy to see changes being made to help people see what is actually in the foods. I always say, take your reading glasses with you and read the labels. Buy from companies you know are reputable and use high quality ingredients. When in doubt, don’t buy it. It’s always best to eat whole real food in its natural state. Then you really know what you are eating. Bon appétit!
By Nancy Addison CHC, AADP, September. 6, 2014,
copyright@nancyaddison2014
