The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) took years to apply it but this time it is there: Americans who will go to a restaurant, fast food, cafes and grocery stores can now read on menus or packaging of selected dishes and foods the number of calories that they contain. Since Monday, May 7, the measure has entered into force in all American states, following a movement already initiated for years already by the city of New York. All restaurant chains with more than 20 locations must comply with this new rule. Grocery stores, fast food, food trucks, candy sellers in cinemas and even vending machines are also affected by this requirement.
A “step” to fight against obesity
Decided under the Obama administration, the law is motivated by an objective of transparency for consumers. This labeling is intended to encourage Americans to eat healthier by making better nutritional choices. In any case, this is the opinion of the FDA experts, convinced that this new nutritional labeling rule will improve public health by reducing the alarming figures of obesityin the country. Scott Gottlieb, FDA Commissioner, quoted by CNN, advance for proof of the studies which showed that the customers informed by the number of calories tended to order on average 50 calories less per day … or the equivalent of a small cookie. A drop of water compared to the magnitude of the task incumbent on the United States where 40% of Americans are obese (body mass index equal to or greater than 30) including 20% of adolescents. Scott Gottlieb remains confident, the impact will be seen gradually over time, he says on CNN. “This is a significant and progressive step in the fight against” the obesity epidemic in the country.
The junk food is responsible for 400,000 deaths every year in the United States, according to the American heart association.
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