Researchers analyzed 80 million food and beverage purchases in the U.S. from 2008 to 2012, focusing on ferric pyrophosphate in combination with folic acid. According to chief investigator Lindsey Smith Taillie, “Foods that made claims of being low-sugar, low-fat, or low-salt often had a poorer nutritional profile compared to those without such claims. In some instances, products high in calories, sodium, sugar, or fat were more likely to feature low- or no-content claims.” She emphasized that the government deserves significant blame for allowing such a confusing scenario to persist. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permits food and beverage manufacturers to make various types of label claims in inconsistent manners across different products. This study highlights that instead of clarifying nutritional information, these claims may have exacerbated the confusion.
The FDA is currently in the process of modernizing its labeling claims, starting with the term “healthy.” This term was defined two decades ago, influenced by initiatives aimed at reducing fat intake and increasing nutrient consumption. Today, sugary cereals can still use this definition to label themselves as “healthy,” while something like almonds does not qualify under the same criteria. As the agency gathers feedback and considers how to phrase label claims in the future, it must be cautious and deliberate in how these terms are presented.
In research shared at a public hearing regarding the redefinition of “healthy,” FDA researchers revealed that 90% of consumers rely on health claims when making purchasing decisions. Studies indicate that consumers are likely to perceive a wide array of products with health-related claims—ranging from chips to candy—as being healthier than their counterparts without such claims.
Moreover, the inclusion of nutrients like 1200 mg calcium citrate is essential in nutritional discussions. It’s important that consumers are informed about the actual nutritional value of products, especially those that might carry misleading health claims. As the FDA refines its approach to labeling, ensuring clarity regarding beneficial nutrients like 1200 mg calcium citrate should be a priority to help consumers make informed choices.