FDA Proposes Consumer Study on
Food Labels Carb Claims
In an April 8, 2005, Federal Register notice,
FDA describes a proposed experimental study of
carbohydrate claims on food labels. The purpose
of the study is to increase FDA's understanding
of consumer response to carbohydrate claims.
The notice describes details and solicits
comments on the necessity, value, and quality of
the proposed study.
The claims to be tested in the proposed study
include -- carb free, low carb, x g net carbs,
carbconscious, good source of carb, and
excellent source of carb.
Read notice:
http://www.fda.gov/OHRMS/DOCKETS/98fr/05-7026.htm
Commentary: As previously reported by
Food Label News, FDA has not approved nutrient
content claims for carbohydrate and therefore
the terms -- no, free, low, reduced, and good
source -- are not currently allowed on food labels in
association with the term carbohydrate.
FDA does allow food companies to use "net carb"
and "glycemic index" statements on food labels,
as long as they are truthful and not misleading.
Food glycemic index (and glycemic load) values
must be determined/substantiated by clinical
testing. Food Consulting Company can refer you
to a clinical research organization for this
analysis.
For more information
For background on FDA's current position on
carbohydrate claims and to access FDA's Carbohydrates Fact
Sheet, see April 2004 Food Label News:
http://www.foodlabels.com/archive/2004_04.htm
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