The FDA recently issued a final rule, which updates the definition for the implied nutrient content claim “healthy.” The definition change aims for “healthy” to be consistent with current nutrition science and Federal dietary guidance.
Essentially, the final rule updates the requirements for when the term “healthy” can be used as an implied nutrient content claim in the labeling of human food products to help consumers identify foods to serve a nutritious diet. This rule will assist consumers who rely on food labels when grocery shopping for themselves and their families. The FDA has regulated the use of “healthy” in the nutritional context since the 90s and has played an important role in ensuring that food labels are accurate, truthful, and not misleading. Additionally, the FDA has acknowledged that when a manufacturer uses labeling that describes a product as “healthy”, it is making an implicit claim about the product’s level of nutrients.
Clearly, since the 90s, nutrition science has evolved. The FDA has outlined that this Final Rule aims to not only further the goal of preventing misleading labeling, but to also reduce consumer confusion. Consumer access to accurate nutrition information, allows them to identify healthier choices, which will ideally reduce diet-related chronic diseases.
Although this rule is effective February 25, 2025, the compliance date of the final rule is February 25, 2028. See more about the FDA’s final rule: https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2024-29957.pdf