The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing a significant change to food labeling requirements that could impact how consumers shop—and how manufacturers design their packaging.
In a move to promote healthier eating and empower consumers with clear, at-a-glance nutrition guidance, the FDA is proposing to require a front-of-package (FOP) “Nutrition Info” box on most packaged foods. This initiative is currently in the public comment phase, with the period now extended to July 15, 2025. Stakeholders, including food manufacturers, are encouraged to review the proposed rule and submit feedback on Regulations.gov under docket number FDA-2024-N-2910.
What Is the Nutrition Info Box?
The proposed Nutrition Info box is a simplified, interpretive label that highlights the levels of three key nutrients of public health concern:
- Saturated fat
- Sodium
- Added sugars
These nutrients would be displayed with both a percent Daily Value and an interpretive term: “Low,” “Med,” or “High.” For example:
- High = More than 20% DV
- Medium = 6% to 19% DV
- Low = 5% DV or less
Importantly, this information would be placed prominently in the top third of the front panel of the food package, using the Helvetica font and a uniform black-and-white design to maintain consistency across products.
According to the FDA, diet-related chronic diseases—such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity—are leading causes of death and disability in the U.S., and are more prevalent in certain underserved populations. Consumers often struggle to interpret nutrition information on the back of packages. The FOP Nutrition Info box aims to bridge this gap by providing quick, easily digestible insights right where purchasing decisions happen.
Other countries with similar FOP labeling schemes have seen measurable benefits in consumer behavior. The FDA’s own studies showed that the proposed Nutrition Info box performed best in helping consumers identify healthier choices—particularly when simplified and interpretive language was used.
If finalized, the rule will apply to most packaged foods sold in the U.S., with the following compliance deadlines:
- Large manufacturers (>$10 million in annual food sales): 3 years after the rule’s effective date
- Small manufacturers (<$10 million): 4 years after the effective date
The FDA estimates the food industry may spend over $150 million over the next decade to update packaging and potentially reformulate products to avoid “High” nutrient flags.
As labeling requirements evolve, Elmark Packaging will continue to monitor FDA updates and provide our clients with the resources, equipment, and services they need to stay compliant and competitive.
If you have questions about what this rule means for your packaging process or how to prepare, reach out to our team—we’re here to help at www.elmarkpkg.com or call 800-441-3131.
