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‘The Food Labeling Modernization Act’ (FLMA) was introduced this month in both houses of Congress by Representative Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), along with Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Senators Ed Markey (D-MA) and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).

The list of proposed initiatives is long and though the likelihood of the Bill succeeding in its entirety is in debate, certain proposals may well gain traction and move ahead. Let us know if EAS can be of assistance with your labeling questions. Whether in preparation for new rules in the pipeline or ensuring compliance with those already enforced, EAS labeling team can review, revise and make recommendations on claims that meet FDA expectations.

Here is a list of some initiatives in the FLMA include:

  • Additional requirements for front-of-package labeling for foods, directing the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a single, standard, front-of-package nutrition labeling system for all packaged food products
  • New Labeling laws requiring Nutrition Facts, ingredient, and allergen information to be displayed for online grocery items
  • Reviewing “standards of identity” prescribed by regulation which requires foods to contain minimum levels of nutrients that the Secretary of HHS determines are strongly associated with public health concerns or minimum levels of ingredients containing high levels of such nutrients
  • Claims for conventional foods, including requiring food products with claims about certain ingredients (e.g. ‘whole grain’) declare the percent of that specific ingredient in their product
  • Use of specific terms: whole grain/multigrain; fruit (fruity frooty), veggie, yogurt; natural; healthy
  • Format requirements for the ingredient list.
  • Declaration of phosphorus in the ingredient list and NFB
  • Declaring the caffeine content on information panel.
  • More food allergen labeling features, such as information about major food allergens and gluten-containing grains.
  • Submission and availability of food label information: mandatory label submission/public database.
  • Labeling sugar alcohols and isolated fibers.
  • Labeling for infant and toddler beverages.
  • Formatting of information on principal display panels.
  • Sale of food online.

 

Posted in FDA and USDA Regulatory Update, Foods.