/>i- On October 17, the FDA published “Catching Up with Califf: Advancing Nutrition, Healthy Food Options and Front-of-Package Labeling.” The update, written by FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, discussed the agency’s nutrition efforts in response to last year’s White House Conference and National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health.
- Commissioner Califf stated that the development of front-of-package (FOP) labeling is “front and center” in terms of agency attention. FOP labeling could help consumers better understand nutrition information and has the potential to be one of the most momentous changes to food labeling since the Nutrition Facts label. The FDA is now conducting consumer research to understand responses to various elements of an FOP labeling system. The agency intends to use these results to inform next steps, including consideration of approaches to take as part of a planned proposed rule for public comment. Commissioner Califf also announced that on November 16 the Reagan-Udall Foundation will host a public meeting to discuss FOP labeling with stakeholders.
- In addition to the update on FOP labeling, Commissioner Califf highlighted other nutrition initiatives already accomplished by the agency:
- Published a proposed rule to update the definition of the nutrient content claim “healthy”
- Updated the food code to include recommendations on food donations
- Issued a draft guidance on Dietary Guidance Statements
- Published a proposed rule to permit salt substitutes in standardized foods
- Published a Request for Information on food labeling in online grocery platforms
- Hosting an upcoming Virtual Public Meeting and Listening Sessions to reduce added sugar consumption in the US
Califf Provides Update on Front-of-Package Labeling
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
