This post was written by Sarah Roller

In response to the disturbing rates of overweight, obesity, and diet-related chronic disease among Americans, Congress requested an Institute of Medicine (IOM) study that would examine “front-of-package” (FOP) nutrition labeling systems and symbols and the effects that FOP labeling could have on consumer food choices. With sponsorship from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), IOM launched the requested FOP labeling study to be conducted in two phases. On October 13, 2010, the results of the first phase of the IOM study (Phase I study) were published in a report entitled, “Examination of Front-of-Package Nutrition Rating Systems and Symbols: Phase I Report” (Phase I Report).

The report concluded, among other things, that for FOP labeling systems to be helpful to consumers in making food choices that are consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, FOP labeling should focus on conveying a limited set of information concerning the nutrients that are most strongly linked to significant diet-related disease risks that affect the greatest number of Americans.

For more information, please see our advisory regarding the IOM study and related report.

IOM Issues Phase I Report Regarding Front-of-Package Nutrition Rating Systems and Symbols