The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently announced a significant update to the definition of “healthy” foods. This change will compel major retail chains like Walmart and Target to alter how they label and market certain food products.
This initiative, marking the first revision in over three decades, aims to provide consumers with a clearer and more accurate guide to the nutritional value of the foods they consume. The new regulation establishes stricter criteria for products to qualify as “healthy.”
Beginning on February 25, 2025, foods that carry this label must include a minimum amount of one or more primary food groups, which encompass fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and dairy products.
Major Changes in Food Labeling: How Will Supermarkets Adapt to FDA Regulations
Additionally, these products must not exceed specific limits on saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars. This change aims to ensure that when consumers see the “healthy” label, they can trust it reflects a genuinely nutritious choice.
In a significant move, products that are currently marketed as “healthy” but contain high levels of sugar or sodium will need to adjust their labeling or reformulate their ingredients to align with the new guidelines. The FDA’s updated regulations will require supermarkets like Walmart and Target to change the labeling on foods that are currently advertised as “healthy.”
Are Your Favorite Foods Really “Healthy”? FDA Updates Criteria for 2025
According to the FDA, the primary aim of this update is to make it easier for consumers to understand labels and make more informed choices. As stated by FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, “It is crucial for the future of our nation that food serves as a vehicle for wellness.” This statement, reported by The Hill, underscores the importance of improving access to nutritional information as a vital tool for encouraging healthier eating habits.
The recent update not only places new restrictions but also broadens the list of products that can now be classified as “healthy.” Foods such as nuts and seeds, salmon and other oily fish, eggs, and water are now recognized for their nutritional benefits. Previously, these items did not meet the criteria due to their fat or cholesterol content. Conversely, items like white bread, sugar-added yogurts, and sweetened cereals will no longer qualify as “healthy” under the new definition.
Understanding the New Standards
It’s essential to highlight that the regulation does not mandate manufacturers to label their products as “healthy.” This labeling is entirely voluntary. However, if a company chooses to feature the word “healthy” on its packaging, it must ensure that the product aligns with the new standards.
These changes aim to better reflect the true nutritional benefits of various foods, guiding consumers toward more informed dietary choices.
Starting in 2025, manufacturers will have the opportunity to begin adopting the updated criteria. However, they will have a grace period of three years—until 2028—to fully implement these changes across their entire product range. During this time, companies will need to reassess their formulas, modify labels, and ensure compliance with the new requirements.
What’s New in Food Labeling?
Foods such as nuts, salmon, and eggs will now be eligible to carry the “healthy” label. In contrast, products that are high in added sugars will not qualify.
A spokesperson from the FDA told The Sun that while the labeling will be voluntary, the agency will closely monitor companies choosing to use the “healthy” label to ensure they meet the new guidelines. Those failing to comply may face penalties or even have their products removed from the market.
In today’s world, there is no standardized symbol to indicate whether a food product meets the criteria for being labeled as “healthy.” The FDA is currently exploring the possibility of developing an official symbol that manufacturers can place on the packaging of products that comply with the new standards.
A Visual Guide for Healthier Choices
The creation of this symbol aims to provide a clear and quick visual cue for consumers to identify nutritious products in popular supermarkets like Walmart, Costco, and Target. Although the final decision on this symbol is yet to be made, the FDA believes it could become a key tool in simplifying the shopping experience and encouraging healthier eating habits.
This labeling change is happening amid rising food prices due to inflation, which has led many consumers to choose store-brand or generic products. The potential introduction of a standardized symbol could help guide these purchasing decisions towards healthier options, even when budget constraints are a concern.