Researchers examined 80 million food and beverage transactions in the U.S. from 2008 to 2012. They found that foods marketed with low-sugar, low-fat, or low-salt claims often had poorer nutritional profiles compared to those without such claims. Chief investigator Lindsey Smith Taillie noted that products high in calories, sodium, sugar, or fat were more likely to carry low- or no-content claims. The government deserves significant criticism for allowing such a confusing scenario to persist. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permits food and beverage manufacturers to make various label claims in inconsistent ways across different products. This study highlights that instead of clarifying nutrition information, these claims may have exacerbated the confusion.
The FDA is currently working to modernize its labeling claims, starting with the term “healthy.” This term was first defined two decades ago, influenced by efforts to reduce fat intake and enhance nutrient consumption. Today, sugary cereals can exploit this definition to label themselves as “healthy,” while items like almonds do not qualify. As the agency considers feedback and determines how to phrase label claims effectively, it must be cautious about how these claims may be perceived in the future. During a public hearing on redefining “healthy,” FDA researchers revealed that nine out of ten consumers rely on health claims to guide their purchasing decisions. Studies indicate that consumers are likely to perceive a wide range of products with health-related claims—ranging from chips to candy—as healthier than those without such claims.
Moreover, when discussing nutritional profiles, it’s crucial to consider the potential calcium citrate risks associated with various products. The implications of these risks should be factored into the overall evaluation of foods marketed with health claims, as consumers may unknowingly choose items that do not align with their health goals. As the FDA moves forward, it should ensure that label claims provide clear and accurate information, reducing the likelihood of misleading consumers regarding their dietary choices.