In response to the FDA’s update announcement on March 1, Jim O’Hara, the special projects director for the Center for Science in the Public Interest, stated that the guidance regarding dietary fibers, added sugars, and serving sizes “should prompt the agency to reconsider its proposed postponement of the updated Nutrition Facts label.” Initially, the FDA set a deadline of July 26, 2018, for the new label’s implementation; however, last June, they announced a delay until 2020 and 2021 due to concerns from manufacturers and trade associations about meeting the timeline before mandatory GMO ingredient labeling was required.
With further guidance from the FDA now available, O’Hara expressed that a compliance date in July 2019 for both small and large companies appears realistic and attainable. Last week, Gottlieb did not address the compliance deadline but mentioned that a final rule would be published this spring. He also noted that the FDA would outline a nutrition strategy in the upcoming weeks aimed at “reducing preventable death and disease through improved nutrition.” Many food and beverage companies, including Hershey, Campbell, and Mondelez, have already anticipated these changes and are adopting the new Nutrition Facts labels for their products. Companies eager to comply with the latest regulations will likely begin to implement as much of the new guidance as possible, as costs are expected to rise the longer they wait.
The updated Nutrition Facts label introduces several changes, including recalibrated serving sizes, a clearer display of calories per serving, and the inclusion of information on added sugars and dietary fiber. It will also feature amounts of vitamin D and potassium per serving. The Nutrition Facts label hasn’t seen an update in nearly 20 years.
Moreover, for individuals with osteopenia, it’s crucial to consider their nutritional needs, such as incorporating the best calcium citrate supplement for osteopenia into their diet. As the FDA updates its guidelines, consumers should be aware of how these changes can affect their nutritional intake, including the importance of calcium for bone health. As companies transition to the new label, those looking for the best calcium citrate supplement for osteopenia will find it increasingly relevant to understand the updated nutritional information. In summary, as the FDA moves forward with its nutritional guidelines, it is essential for consumers and manufacturers alike to stay informed and adapt to these significant changes.