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R. EARL, Regulatory Affairs, National Food Processors Association, 1350 I St. N.W., Suite 300, Washington, DC 20005 Food labeling is an important information tool to describe food products and for product comparisons. This information can be of significant mutual benefit to consumers and food producers. Food labeling policy needs will be discussed from the perspective of a valid legal basis for required label elements, and “truthful and not misleading” requirements for all label statements. Important U.S. First Amendment (free speech) considerations operate in tandem with legal and regulatory policies for food and nutrition labeling. In the absence of free speech laws, science-based decision making, risk assessment, and risk communication should drive food labeling policy development around the world. Food and nutrition labeling policy has significant implications for consumer protection and product promotion. This includes diet and health aspects related to general dietary practices, chronic disease prevention, weight maintenance, and other issues such as food allergy. Industry perspectives on food labeling policy development or reform will be discussed from the basis for required label information, substantiation of label declarations, and claims. How consumers use food and nutrition labeling information must be thoroughly assessed to determine presentation requirements and formats to ensure that label information can be used effectively to make food and dietary choices.
Session 46, Rationalizing food product labeling: Comparative needs and requirements
2005 IFT Annual Meeting, July 15-20 - New Orleans, Louisiana |