March 2018 - Volume 18, Number 3
Hello from Food Label News! We look into the crystal ball of FDA’s 2018 Strategic Policy Roadmap to anticipate what food label actions will be on the agenda for 2018. In fact, shortly before we hit send on this issue, FDA announced updated guidances on this very topic. Read what this means to you in the lead article and in the Food Label Community on LinkedIn. Not yet a member? Don't miss the important conversation - join now.
In this issue:
All the best,
Karen C. Duester, President, Food Consulting Company
FDA 2018 Strategic Policy Roadmap – What We Expect
We look ahead to what food labeling policy changes are part of FDA’s 2018 roadmap. Not surprisingly, they are consistent with the agency’s primary initiative to help consumers make more informed, healthy food choices.
Specific FDA action items for 2018:
See the entire FDA 2018 Strategic Policy Roadmap here.
Late Breaking News: Yesterday, after this article was prepared for publication, FDA announced availability of five new guidance documents specifically related to Nutrition Facts labeling (#1 above) and stated that a final rule regarding the compliance date will be published this spring. Read the press release and access the new guidances here.
Bullseye: The buzz around “healthy” continues. FDA looks for every opportunity to help consumers make more informed, healthy food choices. The emphasis on added sugars and reduced sodium, together with consumers’ desire for clean labeling, present real opportunities for food manufacturers to develop and reformulate products and be more on trend with consumer demands.
What’s News in the Food Label Community
Answers to Your Important Questions
Q. How do I name my Tuscan type spice blend that is not actually from Tuscany? Is Tuscan considered geographic or a type/style of cooking?
— J.P., Manufacturer, Texas
A. “Tuscan Style Spice Blend” is the correct product identification when the spice blend is not actually from Tuscany. A product can use a geographic reference on the label and not be considered misbranded if it meets one of four conditions. MORE
In Case You Missed It...
What's in a Name? How to Choose the Correct Product Identity
What Matters Most in Food Labeling
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