Nutrition and Food Industry Professionals’ Opinions About the Nutrition Label and its Components

Abstract

The introduction of the revised nutrition label in 1993 (1) marked a dramatic change for the food industry. Most processed foods are required to bear the revised nutrition labels, which tell consumers not only what the foods contain but also how the foods relate to a healthful diet (2). The revised label is the result of a combined effort by the government, consumer groups, nutrition professionals, and food industry professionals. The requirements present a challenge for the food industry, as costs to food processors regulated by the Food and Drug Administration are expected to reach between $1.4 billion and $2.3 billion over the next 20 years (3). The label must be supported by consumer education to prevent confusion and to encourage its use (3,4). Clear and consistent recommendations for a healthful diet produced by governmental and other organizations will enhance acceptance and adoption by consumers (5).