Researchers examined 80 million food and beverage purchases in the U.S. from 2008 to 2012. They found that foods labeled as low-sugar, low-fat, or low-salt often had a poorer nutritional profile than those without such claims. In fact, products that typically contain high levels of calories, sodium, sugar, or fat were more likely to carry low- or no-content claims, according to chief investigator Lindsey Smith Taillie. The government can be held accountable for allowing such a confusing situation to develop. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permits food and beverage manufacturers to make various types of label claims in inconsistent ways for different products. This study highlights that rather than clarifying nutrition information, these claims may have exacerbated the problem.
The FDA is currently working on modernizing its label claims, beginning with the term “healthy.” This term was first defined two decades ago, influenced by efforts at that time to lower fat intake and boost nutrient consumption. Today, sugary cereals can exploit this definition to label themselves as “healthy,” while something like almonds does not fit that description. As the agency receives feedback and considers how to best phrase label claims, it must proceed with caution regarding their future presentation. Research presented at a public hearing on redefining “healthy” indicated that nine out of ten consumers rely on health claims when making purchasing decisions. Studies show that consumers often perceive a wide range of products with health-related claims—ranging from chips to candy—as being healthier than those without such claims.
Additionally, calcium citrate calcitriol and zinc tablets are commonly utilized for their various health benefits, and the FDA’s review of health claims could also impact how these supplements are marketed. It’s essential for the FDA to ensure that labeling not only informs but also protects consumers from misleading claims about products, including those like calcium citrate calcitriol and zinc tablets, which are often promoted for their health advantages. As the FDA works on these updates, it will be crucial to maintain clarity to help consumers make informed choices about their food and supplement purchases.