Earlier this summer the FDA released a new set of requirements for food labels, changing both the composition, and information they contain. While the changes are likely to significantly impact package design, the FDA is allowing manufacturers two to three years (depending on the size of the businesses) to implement the changes. So it’s not like you have to start printing new labels tomorrow.
That said, the time to start planning is now, in order to maintain compliance in the future. Here’s what you need to know to get started.
Why They Are Changing
The FDA is adjusting food labels to reflect new scientific findings, specifically the link between diet and chronic conditions such as heart disease and obesity. The FDA believes the new labels will make it easier for consumers to make smarter, healthier food choices.
What Is Changing
- Serving sizes are being updated to reflect the amounts people typically eat, not the amount they should eat. For packages between one and two servings (like a soda bottle) the entire package must be considered one serving, so that it is easier for people to understand how many calories and nutrients they are getting if they eat the entire unit in one sitting.
- Larger, bolder type faces are being used for serving size and calorie count, to help these important elements stand out.
- A new category is being implanted for added sugars, including regular sugars, sugar from syrups and honey, and sugars from concentrated fruit or vegetable juices that are in excess of what would be expected from the same volume of 100% fruit or vegetable juice of the same type.
- The ‘Calories from Fat’ designation is being removed, as research shows that the type of fat is more important than the amount. Accordingly, the FDA has determined that trans fats should be reduced but not eliminated from foods, and will continue to be required on labels.
- New nutrient categories are being added for Vitamin D and Potassium (Vitamin A and C are no longer required, but can be listed voluntarily).
- An updated footnote is designed to better explain Percent Daily Value.
How It Impacts Packaging
Because the new label is larger than the existing one, package designs will need to be reworked to accommodate the new layout. Manufacturers with more than 10 million in sales will have under two years (until July 2018) to come into compliance. Manufacturers with less than 10 million in sales will have almost three years (until July 2019).
About Ethos
Ethos is a multiplatform branding agency that develops and executes integrated marketing campaigns across multiple channels for companies inside and outside Maine.
At Ethos, we believe that the most effective way to set a company’s marketing course is by finding its core truth – it’s ethos. We know that once we discover and communicate that core truth, we can truly make a difference to each client’s unique marketing and business objectives.
With Ethos, you get more than a Maine branding agency. You get a long-term partner whose goals are your goals.
Learn more about the Ethos approach and the work we’ve done for our clients. Want to have a conversation about your brand’s core truth? Contact us!
