Discussions continue with FDA on labeling

NFPA wants to ease labeling restrictions so more information about the health benefits of foods can be put on packaging. "The regulations for health claims may be defeating the purpose of the law," said Regina Hildwine, NFPA's director of technical and regulatory affairs. "You really have to hunt for health claims on labels now. We believe there is a disconnect between the intention of the law and the practical ability to execute it." NFPA's petition would: * allow health claims to be made for foods that contain less than 10 percent of the Daily Value set for certain nutrients; * require that the amount of fat, saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium be noted next to the health claim when levels exceed specific thresholds, rather than applying "disqualifying levels" for these nutrients; and * permit presumptively valid health claims by recognized government institutions, nutrition research, or an objective panel of qualified experts without directly petitioning FDA. Describing the discussions as productive, Hildwine said, "Most points remain open for further discussion and possible resolution."