TRUTH in Labeling Act
The TRUTH in Labeling Act (H.R. 4725) would require a new front-of-package labeling system on foods for human consumption to clearly highlight when products are high in added sugars, sodium, or saturated fat. The Secretary of Health and Human Services would finalize a rule within 180 days of enactment requiring a separate “High in” label on the principal display panel for each of these nutrients, using age-specific Daily Values to determine what counts as “high.” The labeling would apply to foods marketed to infants and young children (up to age 4, excluding infant formula) and would also include a mandatory disclosure if the product contains non-nutritive sweeteners, with a warning that they are not recommended for children. The act directs the establishment of Daily Reference Values and Percent Daily Values for added sugars, sodium, and saturated fat for infants and young children and allows the final rule to proceed even if those values are not yet finalized, with a required later revision once the values are established. The proposal aims to improve consumer understanding and promote healthier choices, while recognizing potential industry responses such as product reformulation and changes in labeling practices.
Key Points
- 1Front-of-package labeling requirement: Within 180 days of enactment, the Secretary must finalize the rule “Food Labeling: Front-of-Package Nutrition Information,” mandating a separate “High in” label on the principal display panel for each applicable nutrient (added sugars, sodium, saturated fat) for products intended for human consumption.
- 2Age-specific labeling and symbols: The “High in” labels must be based on Daily Values that apply to adults, children ages 1–3, and infants through 12 months, with an accompanying conspicuous exclamation point icon. If applicable, a statement about non-nutritive sweeteners (not recommended for children) must be placed adjacent to the labels.
- 3Scope of application: The labeling requirements apply to foods represented or intended for infants through 12 months and children aged 1–4 years (excluding infant formula). The rule would require front-of-pack disclosures for these age groups.
- 4Daily Values and timing: The Secretary must establish Daily Reference Values and Percent Daily Values for added sugars, sodium, and saturated fat for infants 0–12 months and update values for ages 1–3 to align with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. If finalizing the rule before these values are established, the rule can proceed with later revisions to incorporate them.
- 5Regulatory alignment and sodium limits: The bill allows for updating certain low-sodium nutrient content claims to reflect current science (up to 115 mg per reference amount or per 100 g) and to align with revised daily values.