The Grocer Manufacturers Association and the Food Marketing Institute have just announced a new front of pack food
labeling called Nutrition Keys. They developed this new initiative in response to our first Lady, Michelle Obama who met with them last year to discuss how they can work together to promote healthier products to kids and families.
One of the concerns is the food that is promoted in the grocery store. It is no secret that all the higher sugar and higher fatty items tend to be at eye level. You combine that with all the marketing that is done on the front of packages to promote its visual appeal and we are easily lured to buy that product.
If consumers new that this was a 500 calorie item or that it had 40 grams of sugar in it, would they still buy it? This information is already on the package but in very small print on the food label either on the side of the box or in back of the box. But never on front of the box.
With this new system, some key information would be right on the front of the package.
It will be interesting to see which food manufacturers choose to participate. I will be keeping a look out, but my guess is the healthy foods will gladly show their information right on the front.
And of course, will all this make a difference in parents shopping habits.
Don't wait for this label to be seen on packages, just take a moment and turn the box over and see what is inside the food you are about to feed your family
Would you change your mind and buy a different cereal for your child if you saw how much sugar was in one serving? Share your thoughts below.
You may be interested in these related materials from our website:
Fun food Label Activity Page - teaching kids about food labels
Using Food Labels to Make Healthy Food Choices
Printable - Food Labels Informational Sheet (Spanish version)
Nutrient Claims Article and Chart
Printable Handy Nutrient Claims Reference Chart (Spanish version)
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