A report issued by a committee appointed by the Institute of Medicine concluded that it truly is time for an alternate approach in presenting nutritional information about the healthfulness of food. After reviewing a number of products at retail and in my cupboard, I certainly agree. The front of package (FOP) display could be standardized, will be more informative to consumers, and would, with information contained on the principal display panel, motivate food and beverage companies to produce healthier products because of its closeness to the consumers eyes. The key is that the current Nutrition Facts statement is clumsy and complex for the average consumer to review, just too much unnecessary information. The new FOP facts information is simple and does not require a degree in food chemistry or nutrition to understand. Encourage the FDA and the USDA to develop a test program using a single, standard FOP system and replacing the existing system, the Nutrtition Facts Statement. Afterall the most effective programs will be those that consumers embrace and understand. Simplicity is key, there is too much unnecessary information with the current system, and its model needs an overhaul.
Flanyak Scientific, LLC is a consulting firm supporting the Food, Confectionery and Pharmaceutical Industries.
Flanyak Scientific, LLC is a consulting firm supporting the Food, Confectionery and Pharmaceutical Industries.
