Nutrition Keys: New FOP Labeling System Launches

WASHINGTONCalled the most significant modernization of food labels since the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act of 1990, Nutrition Keys launched with the support of the nations leading food and beverage manufacturers and retailers. The new front-of-package food labeling system was initiated in response to a request from First Lady Michelle Obama to help busy shoppers make informed choices.

 We share First Lady Michelle Obamas goal of solving childhood obesity within a generation," said Pamela G. Bailey, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Grocery Manufacturers Association.  Todays announcement would not have been possible without her leadership.  Food and beverage companies have a strong track record of providing consumers with the products, tools and information they need to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle, and this program represents a significant milestone in our ongoing effort to help consumers construct a healthy diet."

The Nutrition Keys system is based on a simple FOP icon showing the calories, saturated fat, sodium and total sugars content of a product. The icon will also how the key nutrients in each product fit into a balanced and healthy diet as part of the federal governments daily dietary advice. Manufacturers can also include up to two nutrients to encourage"potassium, fiber, protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium and iron. These are considered shortfall nutrients or are required to be on the nutrition facts panel. They can only be included on the Nutrition Keys label if the product contains more than 10 percent of the daily value per serving of the nutrient and meets the FDA requirements for a good source" nutrient content claim.

Companies will begin rolling out the new labeling system this year, with the first newly labeled products hitting store shelves in the next few months. To build consumer awareness of the new icon, participating food and beverage manufacturers and retailers have agreed to invest at least $50 million in an advertising, public relations and in-store marketing campaign.

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