Nutrition labels need explanation?

Nutrtion labels were put on foods years ago so consumers could use the presented facts to “control their caloric intake and weight, and to make healthier food choices.”

How do you think this is working?

Well, the FDA has decided — not too well.

And, they’ve concluded the problem is that consumers don’t know how to use these labels. Therefore, they have launched a web-based learning program called “Make Your Calories Count.”

The interactive program features an animated character called “Labelman” who leads the viewer through a series of exercises on the food label. The program includes exercises to help consumers explore the relationship between serving sizes and calories, while they learn how to limit certain nutrients and get enough of others.

The FDA — to keep the program simple — presents just two nutrients that should be limited (saturated fat and sodium) and two that should be consumed in adequate amounts (fiber and calcium).

So, what do you think? Is this website going to finally allow food labels to have their promised postive impact on our health and weight?

The Center for Science in Public Interest doen’t think so. They are quoted as saying, “the governement is just delusional if they think yet another website and brochure will make a dent in the obesity epdemic.”

I agree.

Allen Oelschlaeger
Author of Finally, the Straight Scoop About Weight, Nutrition, and Fitness