1. Navigating Food Labels

2. Food Label Regulations
NLEA, 1990; mandatory labeling, 1994
Regulated by:
Food and Drug Administration
Food Safety and Inspection Service/USDA

3. Food Label Regulations
Exempt foods:
Plain coffee, tea
Most spices
Restaurant foods and foods prepared in stores (unless a claim such as “low-fat” is made)
Foods in very small packages

4. Mandatory Information
1. Statement of identity
2. Net package contents
3. Manufacturer/packer/distributor contact information
4. Ingredient list: descending order by weight
Nutrition information: Nutrition Facts panel
Allergy information

5. What’s On Your Food Label?
Share the following:
Statement of identity
Net package contents
Manufacturer/packer/distributor contact information
Read the ingredient list.
Are there food allergens listed?

6. Nutrition Facts Panel

7. Information in the Footnote
DVs for most nutrients are based on calorie intake.
Some DVs are maximums to stay below and some are recommended levels to strive for.

8. Quick Guide to % Daily Values
Based on 2000 calorie diet.
5% DV or less = low
20% DV or more = high
Keep in mind the serving size on the label and what YOUR portion (actual amount eaten) is!

9. Limit These Nutrients
Many Americans get TOO MUCH of these nutrients in their daily diet.

10. Get Enough of These Nutrients
Many Americans do NOT get enough of these nutrients in their daily diet.

11. Nutrient Content Claims
Describe the quantity of a nutrient provided: high in, good source of, lean …
State nutrient content relative to that in other products: light, less, reduced …
Defined by FDA and USDA regulations
“Good source of fiber"

12. Health Claims Link diet or a food component with health
Substantial scientific support
Emphasize total diet
12 health claims approved by FDA
Low-fat diets rich in fiber-containing grain products, fruits, and vegetables may reduce the risk of some types of cancer, a disease associated with many factors.

13. Structure/Function Claims
Link substance with effect on body structure or function
Can describe effect on “well- being”
More likely to find on dietary supplements
Does not need FDA approval
“ maintains bowel regularity"

14. Front-of-Package Nutrition Labeling

15. Consumer Information
How to Understand and Use the Nutrition Facts Label
The Nutrition Facts Panel – Overview
The Serving Size
Calories (and Calories from Fat)
The Nutrients: How Much?
Understanding the Footnote
(Five sections on Daily Value and %DV)

16. Any questions?

17. Slide set developed by:
Linda B. Bobroff, Ph.D., RD, LD/N
Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences – University of Florida IFAS Extension
June 2010