Navigating grocery store shelves can be a challenge for health-conscious consumers. A new study suggests the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may aim for to rethink its proposed front-of-package nutrition labeling system, aiming for a simpler, more direct approach to highlight foods high in added sugar, sodium, or saturated fat. The research, published in The Lancet Public Health, indicates that a “high in” labeling system could be more effective in guiding consumers toward healthier choices than the agency’s current proposal.
The FDA unveiled its proposed rule for front-of-package labeling in January 2024, intending to provide a quick and easy way for shoppers to assess the nutritional quality of packaged foods. The plan calls for a “Nutrition Information” box on the front of most packages, listing saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars with ratings of “low,” “medium,” or “high” based on percent Daily Value (%DV). However, researchers at the University of California, Davis, argue this approach may inadvertently mislead consumers. The core issue, they found, is that presenting multiple nutrient levels – even with a “high” designation for one – can create a “health halo” effect, obscuring the overall nutritional profile of a product.
A Simpler Signal: ‘High In’
The UC Davis team, led by Jennifer Falbe, an associate professor of nutrition and human development, proposes a more straightforward system. Their research suggests labels should specifically flag products that exceed certain thresholds for added sugar, sodium, or saturated fat with a simple “high in” declaration. For example, a candy bar might carry a “high in added sugars” label, while a frozen pot pie could be labeled “high in sodium” and “high in saturated fat.” This contrasts with the FDA’s proposal, which would list all three nutrients with their respective “low,” “medium,” or “high” ratings and corresponding %DV figures.
To test the effectiveness of different labeling designs, the researchers conducted an online randomized controlled trial involving more than 13,000 adults across the United States. Participants were presented with virtual shopping scenarios and asked to choose between food products with varying labels. The study, published March 24, 2024, found that the “high in” labels significantly outperformed the FDA’s proposed design in helping consumers quickly identify healthier options. Using multiple “high in” labels – flagging several concerning nutrients – further improved participants’ ability to build informed choices.
The ‘Health Halo’ Effect and Misperceptions
A key finding of the study was that the FDA’s proposed label sometimes led participants to *misperceive* unhealthy foods as healthier. “That’s probably given that the FDA label listed two ‘lows’ and one ‘high’ for these products,” explained Falbe. “The two ‘low’s’ may have created a false health halo.” This effect was observed with processed meats and candies, where the presence of “low” ratings for certain nutrients overshadowed the “high” rating for added sugar or sodium. The researchers believe this underscores the need for a more direct and unambiguous labeling system.
Brittany Lemmon, a Ph.D. Candidate in epidemiology and lead author of the study, emphasized the potential impact of clear labeling. “A lot of people overconsume added sugars, sodium and saturated fat, so to be able to quickly see that ‘high-in’ label makes it very easy to say, ‘maybe I should avoid that today,’” she said. The current proposal, while well-intentioned, may not be as effective in prompting those behavioral shifts.
The FDA’s proposed rule, available on the agency’s website, details the requirements for the “Nutrition Information” box, including the criteria for determining “low,” “medium,” and “high” levels of saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars based on %DV. The agency has stated its goal is to empower consumers with at-a-glance information to make more informed dietary choices.
Beyond the Label: A Broader Context
The debate over nutrition labeling comes amid growing concerns about the prevalence of chronic diseases linked to poor diet, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), six in ten adults in the United States have a chronic disease, and four in ten have two or more.
While labeling is an important component of public health efforts, experts emphasize that it’s not a standalone solution. Comprehensive strategies also include promoting nutrition education, improving access to affordable healthy foods, and addressing socioeconomic factors that contribute to dietary disparities. The American Heart Association, for example, advocates for policies that support healthier food environments and reduce consumption of ultra-processed foods.
The FDA is currently reviewing public comments on its proposed rule and is expected to finalize the regulations by January 2025. The agency will then provide guidance to food manufacturers on how to implement the new labeling requirements. Falbe argues that the FDA should carefully consider the research findings and adopt a “high in” labeling system to maximize its impact on public health. “This label will be seen every day by millions of Americans for decades, so the FDA should pick the best label,” she said.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
The FDA is expected to announce its final decision on the front-of-package labeling rule in early 2025. Consumers and health advocates can continue to submit comments to the agency through the official rulemaking process. Share your thoughts on this important public health issue in the comments below.
