WASHINGTON, D.C. May 20, 2016 The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today released the final regulation to update the Nutrition Facts label that appears on most food packages. This is the first time the FDA has made major updates to the content and format of the Nutrition Facts label since it first appeared on most packaged foods, beverages and supplements in 1993.
A statement from Chris Hansen, president of American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), follows:
We 're pleased that the FDA has decided to make significant changes to the Nutrition Facts label, which will be more useful for consumers who want to make healthy choices for themselves and their families. With these changes, the Nutrition Facts label will better inform consumers ' understanding of what nutrients, and what level of nutrients, are important for good health and present nutrition information so it is easy to understand. The final regulation is an important step forward in helping individuals make better choices to help reduce their risk of becoming overweight or obese, which are contributing factors to a growing number of cancer diagnoses.
Changes to the label include making the display of calories and serving sizes more prominent, specifying added sugar content, and adding dual-column labeling to better inform consumers about multiple-servings packages.
With one-fifth of all cancers linked to poor diet, physical inactivity and unhealthy weight, it is vital that Nutrition Facts labels have accurate information because they present an essential opportunity for people to make nutritious food and beverage choices. Presenting nutrition information so it is easy to understand is critical to improving overall public health and reducing the risk of obesity and cancer.
About ACS CAN
ACS CAN, the nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate of the American Cancer Society, supports evidence-based policy and legislative solutions designed to eliminate cancer as a major health problem.æ ACS CAN works to encourage elected officials and candidates to make cancer a top national priority. ACS CAN gives ordinary people extraordinary power to fight cancer with the training and tools they need to make their voices heard. For more information, visit www.fightcancer.org.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Jill Courtney or Alissa Crispino
American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
Phone: (202) 585-3278 or (202) 661-5772
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
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