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The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) launched a proposal to require food companies to place visible nutritional labeling on the front of the packages and containers they produce.
According to the agency EFE, this labeling would indicate the levels of saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars using a system of three categories: low, medium, and high.
Inspired by similar regulations adopted in other countries, the measure aims to combat the excessive consumption of these components, which are considered key factors in chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart conditions.
According to the FDA, at least 60% of Americans suffer from some chronic disease, resulting in an annual cost of $4.5 trillion in healthcare.
"This proposal plays a key role in the agency's nutritional priorities and is part of a government effort to address the chronic health crisis in the country," the FDA emphasized in a statement cited by the media outlet.
The proposal will be open for public comment for 120 days, and if approved, will grant a three-year period for companies with annual revenues exceeding 10 million dollars to implement the measure. Smaller companies will have an additional year to adapt.
Undoubtedly, if realized, this initiative would represent a significant step towards promoting a healthier diet in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Nutritional Labeling Proposed by the FDA
What changes is the FDA proposing for food labeling?
The FDA proposes a visible nutritional label on the front of packages and containers that indicates levels of saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars. This system will use categories of low, medium, and high to make it easier for consumers to quickly identify foods that can be part of a healthy diet.
What is the FDA's objective with this nutritional labeling proposal?
The goal is to combat the excessive consumption of saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars, which are key factors in chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart conditions. The FDA aims to promote healthier eating and address the chronic health crisis in the United States, where 60% of the population suffers from some chronic illness.
What economic impact does the chronic health crisis have in the United States?
The chronic health crisis generates an annual cost of $4.5 trillion in healthcare. This figure underscores the importance of preventive measures such as nutritional labeling to reduce the economic impact and improve public health in the long term.
How will the labeling proposal be implemented if it is approved?
If approved, companies with annual revenues exceeding 10 million dollars will have three years to implement the new labeling. Smaller companies will have an additional year. The proposal will be open for public comment for 120 days before its final approval.
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