NEW YORK, Sept 15: The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is set to propose new front-of-package labeling requirements this fall to help Americans make healthier food choices and combat rising obesity rates. This initiative comes years after similar measures were adopted by other countries.

The proposed labels aim to identify products high in sodium, saturated fat, or added sugars—nutrients commonly found in ultra-processed foods, which contribute to over half of the daily calorie intake in the US. However, some nutrition experts and lawmakers, including Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), argue that the proposed labels may not be sufficient to protect public health. Sanders has suggested a stricter labeling system, citing the urgent need to address childhood obesity, which affects nearly 20% of U.S. children—almost four times the rate in the 1970s.

The FDA is considering two main labeling options: one that flags products with high levels of added sugars, saturated fat, or sodium (20% or more of the daily recommended amount per serving), and another that uses color-coded labels to indicate nutrient levels. Under the latter option, foods would receive a green “low” label for nutrients making up 5% or less of the daily value, a yellow “medium” label for levels between 5% and 20%, and a red “high” label for amounts of 20% or more.

Critics argue that these proposed labels are less clear and effective compared to those used in Chile, which features black octagonal warnings for high levels of calories, saturated fat, sodium, or sugar. Chile's labels have been linked to a decrease in the number of products meeting these criteria, although the data includes the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on obesity rates.

Food companies are pushing back against the proposed labels, claiming they could lead to higher food prices and legal challenges. Industry representatives argue that the FDA's options are too subjective and may violate commercial free speech rights. Additionally, they question the FDA's authority to impose such changes and highlight potential cost increases for consumers.

The FDA's proposed labels do not include warnings for high-calorie foods, unlike Chile's system. For example, Cheerios, which would receive a yellow label for "medium" sodium levels under the FDA’s proposal, would get a black warning for high sodium and calories in Chile. Similarly, Nature Valley granola bars would be labeled for high added sugars and medium levels of saturated fat and sodium in the U.S., while receiving warnings for high sugar and calories in Chile.

The Consumer Brands Association and FMI, The Food Industry Association, argue that the labels are not effective and may lead to legal disputes. They emphasize that voluntary labeling systems, like the one in place since 2011, provide more flexibility and avoid potential conflicts.

The FDA has yet to submit a draft of the proposed rule to the White House budget office, a necessary step before public release. The proposal's future remains uncertain, with potential delays and changes depending on the outcome of the upcoming presidential election and ongoing industry resistance.

Health advocates and experts, such as Neena Prasad from Bloomberg Philanthropies, stress the importance of addressing diet-related diseases and urge for more effective measures to protect public health.