You might be noticing changes to Nutrition Facts labels on foods and supplements. New rules are going into effect starting January 1, 2020. Manufacturers with at least $10 million in annual sales are required to make the changes first. Smaller manufacturers have until 2021 to make the switch. But anticipate seeing lots of these changes rolled out next year. What should you expect?
Overall, the goal of these new labels is to help consumers make more informed decisions. If consumers can’t find the information they need, or if it isn’t obvious at first glance, they likely aren’t going to consider it. Servings per container, serving size, and total calories will all be in much bigger and bolder font. Labels will also have added sugars listed separately from sugars naturally present in the product.
Nutrient content labeling is also changing. Notably for the dietary supplement world, actual quantities of vitamin D, calcium, iron and potassium must be clearly listed in addition to the percent daily value. Amounts for vitamins A and C won’t be required anymore because deficiency is much rarer today than it was back in the 90s. Daily values for nutrients like sodium and dietary fiber are also changing to help people consume less salt and more fiber.
Some dietary supplement companies like NOW Foods and Thorne are already putting these changes into effect. Many new products added to our Commercial Products Database already include these changes. Expect to see more in the new year.
Related topics:
The information in this brief report is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions. Copyright © 2024 NatMed. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited. NatMed is the leading provider of high-quality, evidence-based, clinically-relevant information on natural medicine, dietary supplements, herbs, vitamins, minerals, functional foods, diets, complementary practices, CAM modalities, exercises and medical conditions. Monograph sections include interactions with herbs, drugs, foods and labs, contraindications, depletions, dosing, toxicology, adverse effects, pregnancy and lactation data, synonyms, safety and effectiveness.
