You can use the Nutrition Facts label to monitor calories and nutrients in packaged foods and drinks and more often choose items higher in dietary fiber, vitamin D, calcium, iron, and potassium and lower in saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars.

The FDA plays a key role within a broader, whole-of-government approach to help reduce the burden of chronic diseases and advance health equity by helping to improve dietary patterns in the U.S. For example, food labeling can be a powerful tool for change. It empowers consumers with information they can use to identify healthier foods.

Labeling statements, such as Dietary Guidance Statements, act as quick signals on food packages to help consumers better understand nutrition information and make healthier food choices. Current dietary recommendations focus on the entirety of the diet and how food and beverage choices affect health.

The FDA’s decision to test front-of-package nutrition information is supported by previous research that suggests improved labeling can impact consumers’ dietary choices. Studies have shown that prominent, easy-to-read labels can influence purchasing decisions and encourage individuals to select healthier options.