Introduction the the New Nutrition Facts Panel
You are probably used to seeing this label on all the foods you eat…
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But what is this…??
The Nutrition Facts Panel can help you make healthy choices at the grocery store, compare foods and products, and plan healthy meals. Information on the Nutrition Facts Panel also can help you reduce your risk for certain diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, obesity, diabetes, and some forms of cancer.
As scientific research continues to explore new links between nutrition and overall health, the Nutrition Facts Panel will continue to evolve. The Nutrition Facts Panel is designed to include key nutrients of public health concern and information to make informed food choices and comparisons.
For the first time since its debut in 1994 the Nutrition Facts Panel is about to change. All food labels will be required to include information on trans fats beginning January 1, 2006. The FDA also is considering additional changes to strengthen and reinforce the message “Calories Count.”
The Nutrition Facts Panel has two main sections. The top section contains product-specific information (serving size, calories, and nutrient information) that varies with each food product. The bottom section contains a footnote, which is found only on larger packages and provides general dietary information about important nutrients. This format does not change among food products.
Source: http://www.extension.iastate.edu/Publications/PM1979.pdf
