August 25, 2010
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration released two documents that outline steps to help chain restaurants comply with new federal nutrition labeling requirements. “One of the most important things we can do when it comes to the nation’s health is to provide simple basic information to the American people so they can make choices that are best for them and their family,” said FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg, M.D. “The menu labeling program will help Americans get the facts about food choices that are available to them in restaurants and vending machines so they know what is in the food and can make healthier selections.”
The documents released by the FDA include: A draft guidance document describing implementation of certain provisions of the federal law and a final guidance document for industry regarding the effect of the new federal nutrition labeling requirements on state and local laws.
Comments on the draft are due to FDA within 45 days of the date of publication of the notice of availability in the Federal Register, which is expected on August 25, 2010.
More information:
FDA Press Announcement
Draft Guidance for Industry: Questions and Answers Regarding Implementation of the Menu Labeling Provisions of Section 4205 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010
Guidance for Industry: Questions and Answers Regarding the Effect of Section 4205 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 on State and Local Menu and Vending Machine Labeling Laws