Monday, January 24, 2011

Modernized Food Labels Educate Consumers to Avoid Overweight

In response to a request from First Lady Michelle Obama last year, the Grocery Manufacturers' Association and the Food Marketing Institute announced a voluntary front-of-pack labeling system that will give consumers the information they need to choose healthy foods for themselves and their families.  Unfortunately, GMA's "Nutrition Keys" system preempts work by the Food and Drug Administration, which has been developing labeling guidelines.  Public health experts fear that focus on "positive" nutrients can make junk food seem nutritious.