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FDA Updates Definition of 'Healthy' Food Labels, Allowing Salmon and Nuts, Effective February 2025

Dec 20, 2024, 02:30 AM

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has finalized a new rule updating the definition of the term 'healthy' on food labels for the first time in 30 years. This change aims to provide consumers with clearer, more accurate nutrition information and to encourage healthier dietary choices. Under the new guidelines, food manufacturers must demonstrate that their products meet specific nutrient thresholds and contain limited amounts of sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars to qualify for the 'healthy' label. The updated definition now allows foods such as salmon, nuts, and seeds to be labeled as healthy, while items like white bread and sugary cereals have been excluded. The FDA's decision comes amid rising concerns over diet-related chronic diseases in the U.S. The new rules are set to take effect at the end of February 2025, and they are intended to help consumers better navigate food labels in alignment with federal dietary guidelines.