FDA seeks comments on front-of-package labeling, shelf tags

Industry News - AM
FDA seeks comments on front-of-package labeling, shelf tags

By Ann Bagel Storck on 4/30/2010

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is asking for comments and information about front-of-package nutrition labeling and on-shelf tags in retail stores.

FDA said it is seeking public participation as it deliberates about how to enhance the usefulness to consumers of point-of-purchase nutrition information. This includes information on the main display panel of food products, called "front-of-pack" labeling, as well as information on shelf tags in retail stores.

FDA is seeking to learn more about:

the extent to which consumers notice, use and understand nutrition symbols on front-of-pack labeling of food packages or on shelf tags in retail stores

research that assesses and compares the effectiveness of particular approaches to front-of-pack labeling

graphic design, marketing and advertising data and information that can help develop better point-of-purchase nutrition information

how point-of-purchase information may affect decisions by food manufacturers to reformulate products
FDA is accepting comments until July 28. Comments may be sent to regulations.gov by entering Docket No. FDA-2010-N-0210. Written comments also may be sent to the Division of Dockets Management (HFA-305) Food and Drug Administration, 5630 Fishers Lane, Room 1061, Rockville, Md., 20852.