WASHINGTON - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed a new rule that would require front-of-package (FOP) nutrition labeling on packaged foods to help consumers make healthier choices at a glance. The suggested labels would indicate levels of saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars, categorizing them as "Low," "Med," or "High."
This initiative follows an FDA study conducted in 2023 with nearly 10,000 U.S. adults, which aimed to determine the most effective FOP labeling system for helping consumers quickly and accurately assess the healthiness of food products.
Rick Guiney, CEO of MicroSalt plc (AIM: SALT), a company specializing in low-sodium salt alternatives, stated that the proposed guidelines could significantly influence the packaged food and beverage industry. Guiney believes that the new FOP labeling will provide clear information on key nutrients associated with chronic diseases when overconsumed.
MicroSalt, known for its patented salt technology that delivers full flavor with around 50% less sodium, sees the FDA's move as supportive of its mission to offer healthier ingredients for food manufacturers. The company's product is designed to meet the growing consumer demand for reduced-sodium food options without compromising taste.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has set a goal to reduce global sodium intake by 30% by 2025, a measure that could save an estimated 7 million lives by 2030. With cardiovascular diseases imposing significant health and economic burdens, solutions like MicroSalt's low-sodium salt aim to address the high sodium levels often found in processed foods, which contribute to these health issues.
MicroSalt's technology is patented, and the company positions itself as a potential disruptor in the food industry, aiming to capitalize on the expanding low-sodium market and potentially enter the broader salt market.
The FDA's proposal is part of a broader effort to enhance public health by making nutritional information more accessible and understandable, encouraging healthier eating habits among consumers. The agency's suggested changes are currently open for public comment, as part of the regulatory process before any final rule is enacted.
This news is based on a press release statement from MicroSalt plc.
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