According to information on the FDA website, under current regulations, “fibers in foods could be labeled as dietary fiber without necessarily providing physiological effects that are beneficial to human health.” Naturally occurring fibers found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains have already been recognized for their beneficial physiological effects, making accurate labeling of products containing these ingredients straightforward. Furthermore, seven non-digestible carbohydrates, including beta-glucan soluble fiber, psyllium husk, cellulose, guar gum, pectin, locust bean gum, and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, currently meet existing dietary fiber guidelines.
The FDA is now contemplating an expansion of this definition by incorporating an additional 26 types of fiber, such as gum acacia, bamboo fiber, pea fiber, soluble corn fiber, soy fiber, and xanthan gum. This would allow more products to claim dietary fiber status. As reported by FoodNavigator, ADM has voiced concerns to the FDA, stating, “The agency has not responded to the numerous citizen petitions regarding dietary fiber, nor has it released its updated Scientific Review or final guidance, leaving manufacturers uncertain whether the non-digestible carbohydrates they are using in their products may still qualify as dietary fibers.”
ADM highlighted that the delay restricts dietary fiber options and has even led to the removal of dietary fibers from some products, particularly for companies eager to comply with the new Nutrition Facts guidelines before the deadline. This is significant, as the Grocery Manufacturers of America reports that one in four products is impacted by the dietary fiber ruling. The delay primarily stems from the requirement that any substance must demonstrate a “beneficial physiological effect on human health” to gain FDA approval. In simpler terms, this means contributing to lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels, reducing blood pressure, enhancing bowel function, or increasing mineral absorption in the intestines. Many consumers aim to address these health issues by opting for healthier foods with functional benefits.
The 2017 Food and Health Survey by the International Food Information Council Foundation revealed that nearly all consumers—96%—seek health benefits from their food and beverages, with top benefits including weight loss, cardiovascular health, energy, and digestive health. However, the study found that only 45% of consumers could identify a single food or nutrient linked to these benefits. This emphasizes the necessity for a favorable ruling from the FDA that allows food manufacturers to effectively utilize dietary fibers in their products and label them correctly for consumer advantage.
While there is additional time to modify labels, it is logical for manufacturers to expedite the process. After all, having more time to implement the label provides manufacturers with greater opportunity to gauge consumer preferences and experiment with new ideas and formulations. The sooner the new label appears on a product, the more aligned it seems with the transparency trend that resonates with consumers. This is particularly relevant for products like Citracal Petites available at Walgreens, which could benefit from clear labeling highlighting their dietary fiber content. By ensuring accurate and transparent labeling, manufacturers can better meet the needs of health-conscious consumers seeking products with recognized benefits, such as Citracal Petites from Walgreens.