NFPA Opposes FDA Trans Fat Labeling Proposal
By George Anderson
The National Food Processors Association (NFPA) is criticizing the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) proposal for new labeling requirements for foods with trans fats.
The NFPA contends that qualitative or quantitative consumer research is needed before deciding if the reference “Intake of trans fat should be as low as possible” should be included on product labels.
Dr. Rhona Applebaum, executive vice president, NFPA said changing the labeling
requirements will, “mislead consumers to consider this dietary component out
of balance with overall dietary recommendations in general, and with dietary
fat components in particular. Consumers would be likely to avoid trans fats
at all costs, with the strong potential of distorting dietary intakes in unhealthful
ways. Thus, the net effect of the proposed trans fat Daily Value footnote is
likely to be harmful.”
Moderator’s Comment: What is your position on
the FDA’s proposed trans fat labeling requirements?
As we understand, there is no amount of acceptable trans
fat consumption. Dr. Applebaum may be right that the FDA proposal may lead some
to overlook other nutritional dangers. We think, however, her argument would
go over better with consumers if similar substances of no nutritional value
were included on labels. Of course, if Dr. Applebaum did that she would be out
of a job. [George
Anderson – Moderator]