The Food and Drug Administration has recently made a significant update to its definition of what qualifies as “healthy” food, marking the first revision in over thirty years. This update brings the definition more in line with current nutritional guidelines and standards, affecting which products can now bear the coveted “healthy” label.
The revised definition now takes into account the dietary guidelines for Americans, as outlined by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services. These guidelines, which are set to be updated next year, serve as the basis for determining whether a food product can be classified as “healthy.” In order to qualify, products must contain a specified amount of food groups deemed healthy by these guidelines, such as fruits, vegetables, protein, dairy, and grains. Additionally, products must adhere to set limits on saturated fat, sodium, and sugars.
One of the major changes brought about by this update is that more foods now qualify as “healthy,” including higher fat options like salmon, nuts, seeds, and certain oils. On the flip side, many ultra-processed foods, such as cereals that do not meet the whole grain requirement or exceed the sugar limit, are no longer eligible for the label. To make it easier for consumers to identify and purchase these “healthy” foods, the FDA has partnered with Instacart to offer convenient online shopping options.
While these changes aim to provide consumers with clearer guidance on making healthier food choices, access to the full details of this update is restricted to STAT+ subscribers. By subscribing to STAT+, individuals can unlock this article and gain access to daily market-moving biopharma analysis. Additionally, group subscription plans are also available for those looking to share this valuable information with their team.
In conclusion, the FDA’s updated definition of “healthy” food reflects a more modern understanding of nutrition and aims to empower consumers to make informed choices about the foods they consume. By aligning with current dietary guidelines and setting clear criteria for what constitutes a healthy product, this update marks a significant step towards promoting overall health and well-being.
