The FDA announced a final rule updating the definition of "healthy" on food labels. The regulation established new criteria for manufacturers using the "healthy" designation and introduced limits on added sugars. "It's critical for the future of our country that food be a vehicle for wellness," stated FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf, M.D.
Key Changes
The regulation requires qualifying foods to contain amounts from at least one food group or subgroup referenced in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, including fruits, vegetables, protein foods, dairy, and grains. Products must meet defined thresholds for saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars to carry the voluntary "healthy" label.
The new criteria include additional food categories: tree nuts and seeds, higher-fat fish varieties such as salmon, olive oil, and water.
Population Data
According to the FDA, 77% of Americans exceed the recommended saturated fat intake. Furthermore, 79% consume diets with low amounts of dairy, fruits, and vegetables; 63% surpass the recommended added sugar consumption; and 90% exceed daily sodium intake guidelines.
“It is vital that we focus on the key drivers to combat chronic disease, like healthy eating. Now, people will be able to look for the ‘healthy’ claim to help them find foundational, nutritious foods for themselves and their families,” noted Dr. Califf.
Implementation Steps
The FDA announced multiple concurrent initiatives, including a partnership with Instacart to integrate "healthy" designation filters into online grocery shopping platforms. Plus, the development of a standardized "healthy" symbol, and front-of-package nutrition labeling regulations. Phase II voluntary sodium reduction targets for manufacturers have also been proposed.
The FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods, Jim Jones, suggested the new definition could prompt manufacturers to reformulate their products to meet the updated criteria, potentially fostering a healthier food supply.
Regulatory Context
The "healthy" claim remains voluntary for manufacturers. The regulation aligns with current Dietary Guidelines for Americans and updated Nutrition Facts label requirements. These changes are part of the White House National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health.
Reference
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA Updates "Healthy" Claim, Providing a Refreshed Tool for Consumers. Press release. December 19, 2024. Accessed December 19, 2024. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-updates-healthy-claim-providing-refreshed-tool-consumers
