FDA overhauls nutrition facts panel on packaging

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has undertaken a major overhaul of the nutrition facts panel on packaging, which is the first such update in 20 years.

This update has been done to encourage companies from manufacturing less sugary and fattening products and prepare healthy options for consumers.

Calorie count will become more obvious on the new label, which will also now features a section for added sugar such as fructose, corn syrup or other sweeteners.

Such specifications is aimed at helping consumers opt for healthier choices.

Added sugar will be indicated in both grams and daily value.

While the labels indicate maximum level for fats, sodium, and carbohydrates, there was none for sugar.

The new label will also define calorie and nutrition information for each serving and package.

FDA Commissioner Robert Califf said: "For more than 20 years, Americans have relied on the nutrition facts label as a leading source of information regarding calories, fat and other nutrients to help them understand more about the foods they eat in a day.

"The updated label makes improvements to this valuable resource so consumers can make more informed food choices – one of the most important steps a person can take to reduce the risk of heart disease and obesity."

Since 1994, nutritional label has not seen much change. In 2006, trans-fats was included in the label.