IOM Report Proposes New FOP Labeling System

WASHINGTONA new Institute of Medicine (IOM) report is recommending a single, standardized front-of-packaging (FOP) system using symbols on the front of food and beverage packaging to help consumers make healthier choices.

The new rating system would be a drastic departure from current FOP labeling; however, the report concluded the shift ultimately would help simplify and clarify the information provided about foods and help end the confusion that many people have about food choices.

It is time for a move away from front-of-package systems that mostly provide nutrition information on foods or beverages but dont give clear guidance about their healthfulness, and toward one that encourages healthier choices through simplicity, visual clarity, and the ability to convey meaning without written information," the report stated.

The report recommended FDA develop, test, and implement a single, standard symbol system to appear on all food and beverage products, in place of other systems already in use. The symbol system should show calories in household servings on all products. Foods and beverages should be evaluated using a point system for saturated and trans fats and sodium, and added sugars. The more points a food or beverage has, the healthier it is.

The report concluded the new FOP system would encourage food and beverage producers to develop healthier fare and consumers to quickly and easily find healthier products when they shop.