Smart Choices Labeling Launches

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn.Smart Choices is a new front-of-package nutrition labeling program that includes approximately 500 products from eight companies:  General Mills, ConAgra Foods, PepsiCo, Kraft Foods, Sun-Maid, UnileverU.S., Tyson and Kellogg CompanyU.S.

The Smart Choices Program includes a green check-mark  that identifies smarter food and beverage choices within specific product categories on the front of the package. Products that qualify for the Smart Choices Program symbol also will display calorie information on the front of the package, which clearly states calories per serving and number of servings per container. The goal is to help people stay within their daily calorie needs and make it easier for calorie comparisons within product categories.

To qualify, a product must meet specific nutrition criteria that were developed based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and other sources of nutrition science and authoritative guidance.

It is anticipated that the first products carrying the new symbol will be seen in grocery stores beginning in mid-2009 on a voluntary basis.