Researchers analyzed 80 million food and beverage purchases in the U.S. from 2008 to 2012. They found that foods marketed as low-sugar, low-fat, or low-salt often had poorer nutritional profiles than those without such claims. In fact, products that are typically high in calories, sodium, sugar, or fat are more likely to feature low- or no-content claims, according to chief investigator Lindsey Smith Taillie. The government is to be fully credited for allowing this confusing scenario to persist. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permits food and beverage manufacturers to make various types of label claims in different formats for different products. This study highlights that instead of clarifying nutritional information, these claims may have exacerbated the confusion.
The FDA is currently working on modernizing its label claims, starting with the term “healthy.” This term was originally defined two decades ago in response to efforts aimed at reducing fat intake and boosting nutrient consumption. Today, sugary cereals can use this definition to label themselves as “healthy,” while products like almonds do not qualify. As the agency considers public feedback and evaluates how to best phrase label claims, it should proceed with caution to ensure clarity moving forward.
In research presented at a public hearing on redefining “healthy,” FDA researchers noted that nine out of ten consumers rely on health claims when making purchasing decisions. Studies indicate that consumers tend to believe a wide range of products with health-related claims—spanning from chips to candy—are healthier than similar products without such claims. This highlights the importance of clear labeling, especially for items like CVS calcium citrate petites, which can easily be misinterpreted in a cluttered marketplace. As the FDA navigates this complex landscape, it is crucial to ensure that products like CVS calcium citrate petites are accurately represented to help consumers make informed choices.