The FDA is implementing new label changes for food and supplements in 2020 to help consumers make more informed choices about their health. The new labels will feature larger font sizes for calories, serving sizes, and servings per container, making it easier for people to understand what they are eating or taking.
For food labels, the Daily Value of iron, calcium, Vitamin D, and potassium must be listed, with the rest of the vitamins being optional for manufacturers. Sugar will now be represented in grams, and a second line showing the amount and %DV of added sugar will be required. The “calories from fat” section is being removed, and sodium, dietary fiber, and Vitamin D will have new Daily Values based on research findings. The information provided on the labels will now be based on what is going to be eaten, rather than how many servings are per package.
When it comes to vitamin and supplement labels, there will be changes to the Supplement Fact label. The name and quantity of each ingredient, along with “Serving Size” and “Servings Per Container” will be listed if the daily quantity is more than one tablet. %DV will indicate the percentage of Daily Value, and new units of measurement for nutrients will be used. Choline, vitamins A, D, and E will be listed in milligrams or micrograms, and sugar will be listed as %DV.
Understanding the label jargon is essential for interpreting the new labels. Terms like DRI (Dietary Reference Intake), EAR (Estimated Average Requirement), RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance), AI (Adequate Intake), UL (Tolerable Upper Intake Level), IU (International Units), and DV (Daily Value) all play a role in determining nutritional requirements.
Dietary components to limit include sugar, saturated fats, and sodium. The new labels aim to provide consumers with more transparency and help them make healthier choices. By staying informed about these label changes, individuals can better manage their nutritional intake and lead healthier lives.
To learn more about the label changes and how they may affect you, refer to the FDA guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your dietary supplement routine. Embracing these new label changes can contribute to a more health-conscious lifestyle and promote overall well-being.