Nutritional information would have to be displayed on the front of food and beverage packaging in a standardized format, under legislation recently introduced in Congress.
Democratic senators and representatives have introduced the Food Labeling Modernization Act of 2021. The main requirement of the legislation would be a standard front-of-pack labeling system to present nutritional information. It would also establish new FDA guidelines for what can legally be marketed as “healthy.”
Among the sponsors was U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.). “This bill will bring much-needed clarity to food labels so Americans can make informed, healthy decisions for themselves and their families,” Blumenthal said in a statement. “Current labels are a confusing maze and fail to provide important, useful information to consumers. The Food Labeling Modernization Act will ensure serving sizes are updated, allergens are clearly labeled, and nutritional information is transparent, giving people the tools they need to make healthier choices and avoid misleading, deceptive pitches and promotions.”
Other sponsors include House Energy and Commerce committee chairman Frank Pallone Jr. (D-N.J.) and House Appropriations committee chairwoman Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.).