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D. TOET, Unilever NV, Weena 456, Rotterdam, 3013 AL, Netherlands Differences exist among government requirements for what is put on the label of prepackaged foods and other consumer goods. Further, the issue of how to regulate label information and claims vs. those used in advertising also differ. International guidance that could harmonize mechanisms for establishing labeling language might be useful; however, it is clear that the nutritional and compositional differences among and between foods that may be the subject of labeling as regulated in the U.S. are only a part of what many countries require in their labeling regulations. Objective or verifiable differences in characteristics is only a part of what might be useful in label language. For example, in the U.S. there are certain health claims that are approved for use on identified food products, but no such system exists in many countries and not internationally. The Codex Alimentarius provides standards and guidance for labeling and claims, and currently is working on the scientific basis for health and nutrition claim substantiation. However, there is some tension among countries regarding the "consumer's right to know"—perceived risks associated with what is in foods differ among countries, within cultures, and by ethnic groups. These differences create an environment that could result in confusion by consumers rather than understanding. This talk will explore the effects of labeling differences for the industry and also what information is most relevant to meet consumer needs.
Session 46, Rationalizing food product labeling: Comparative needs and requirements
2005 IFT Annual Meeting, July 15-20 - New Orleans, Louisiana |