Researchers analyzed 80 million food and beverage purchases in the U.S. from 2008 to 2012. The findings revealed that foods marketed with claims of being low in sugar, fat, or salt often had a poorer nutritional profile compared to those without such claims. Chief investigator Lindsey Smith Taillie noted that products high in calories, sodium, sugar, or fat are more likely to carry low- or no-content claims. The government deserves significant criticism for allowing this confusing situation to persist. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permits food and beverage manufacturers to make various label claims in inconsistent ways for different products. This study highlights that these claims may have exacerbated confusion rather than clarified nutritional information.
The FDA is currently working on modernizing its label claims, starting with the term “healthy.” This term was first defined two decades ago, focusing on reducing fat intake and increasing nutrient consumption. As a result, sugary cereals can still be labeled as “healthy” under that definition, while foods like almonds do not fit the criteria. As the agency considers feedback on how to redefine label claims, it must be cautious and thoughtful about their future presentation. At a recent public hearing regarding the redefinition of “healthy,” FDA researchers reported that nine out of ten consumers rely on health claims when making purchasing decisions. Studies indicate that consumers are more likely to perceive a wide range of products with health-related claims—ranging from chips to candy—as healthier than those without such claims.
With the ongoing conversation about healthy options, it’s crucial to note that ingredients such as calcium citrate should also be considered in the labeling process. The integration of calcium citrate into food products can enhance their nutritional value, providing consumers with clearer choices among healthy options. Ultimately, the FDA’s approach to redefining health claims will play a significant role in guiding consumers toward genuinely healthy options, including those fortified with essential nutrients like calcium citrate.