The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has redefined the criteria for labeling foods as “healthy,” reflecting advancements in nutrition science and aiming to combat diet-related chronic diseases.
Key Points at a Glance:
- Updated Criteria: Foods must now contain meaningful amounts of recommended food groups and adhere to limits on saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars to be labeled as “healthy.”
- Inclusions and Exclusions: Items like avocados, nuts, seeds, high-fat fish, eggs, and olive oil now qualify as “healthy,” while sugary cereals, sweetened yogurts, and white bread do not.
- Implementation Timeline: The new rule takes effect in two months, with full compliance expected by February 2028.
- New Symbol Development: The FDA is creating a symbol to help consumers easily identify foods that meet the “healthy” criteria.
In a significant move to align food labeling with current nutrition science, the FDA has updated its definition of “healthy” foods for the first time in three decades. This change is part of a broader effort to address the growing crisis of diet-related chronic diseases in the United States, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
Under the new guidelines, for a product to be labeled as “healthy,” it must contain meaningful amounts of food from one or more of the recommended food groups, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, or proteins. Additionally, these products must adhere to specific limits on saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars, with thresholds varying depending on the type of food.
This update reflects a shift in understanding that not all fats are created equal. While previous guidelines emphasized reducing all fats, the current focus is on limiting saturated fats while recognizing the benefits of healthy fats. Consequently, foods like avocados, nuts, seeds, high-fat fish (such as salmon), eggs, and olive oil now meet the “healthy” criteria. Conversely, products high in added sugars, such as certain cereals, sweetened yogurts, and white bread, no longer qualify.
The FDA is also developing a new symbol to indicate that a product meets the “healthy” criteria, aiming to provide a quick and accessible tool for consumers to make informed choices. This initiative is particularly important given that a significant portion of the American population exceeds recommended intakes of saturated fat, added sugars, and sodium, while falling short on essential food groups like fruits, vegetables, and dairy.
The updated rule will take effect in two months, with food manufacturers required to comply by February 2028. This timeline allows companies to adjust their product formulations and labeling to meet the new standards. The FDA’s action underscores the critical role of accurate nutrition information in promoting public health and empowering consumers to make healthier dietary choices.
