FDA proposes mandatory front-of-package labels to tackle chronic diseases. The system would display fat, sodium, and sugar levels in simple 'high/medium/low' format.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today announced a pivotal proposal to mandate front-of-package (FOP) nutrition labeling for most packaged foods—a cornerstone of the agency's nutrition strategy and broader federal efforts to address America's chronic disease epidemic. If finalized, the rule would provide consumers with immediate visibility into saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar content—three nutrients directly linked to chronic illnesses when consumed excessively.

The proposed Nutrition Information Panel would display clear "low," "medium," or "high" indicators for these nutrients, complementing the FDA's iconic Nutrition Facts Label that provides detailed nutritional information elsewhere on packaging.

Chronic Disease: A National Emergency

Heart disease, cancer, and diabetes account for most U.S. deaths and disabilities, affecting 60% of Americans and driving $4.1 trillion in annual healthcare costs. Mounting evidence confirms that ultra-processed foods—often loaded with excessive saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars—significantly contribute to this crisis. The FOP labeling system aims to empower consumers to quickly identify healthier options.

"The science on saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars is unequivocal," stated FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf, M.D. "Nearly everyone knows someone suffering from diet-related chronic conditions. We're making it possible for consumers to glance at a package, make informed choices, and purchase food—all through standardized front-of-package labeling. This reflects FDA's full commitment to leveraging every tool available to advance public health."

Science-Driven Design

The proposed label stems from:

• Comprehensive FDA research (including peer-reviewed studies)

• Consumer focus groups

• A 2023 clinical trial with 10,000 U.S. adults

The trial demonstrated that a black-and-white "?ily Value" label most effectively helped participants accurately assess nutritional value.

"Food should promote wellness, not chronic disease," said Jim Jones, FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods. "Beyond consumer education, we anticipate this labeling may spur manufacturers to reformulate healthier products. Together with federal partners, we aim to reverse America's chronic disease trajectory."

Whole-of-Government Nutrition Strategy

This proposal advances the White House National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health goal to end diet-related diseases by 2030. It aligns with other key FDA initiatives:

• Updated "healthy" nutrient content claims

• Development of a "healthy" symbol

• Phase II voluntary sodium reduction targets

Implementation Timeline

If approved, manufacturers would comply within:

• 3 years for companies with ≥$10M annual food sales

• 4 years for smaller businesses

The FDA remains committed to science-based policies that foster a healthier food supply, empower consumers, and promote lifelong healthy eating patterns.

The FDA, an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects public health by ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines, and other biological products, as well as medical devices. The agency is also responsible for the safety and security of our nation's food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, and products that emit electronic radiation, in addition to regulating tobacco products.