The Food Labeling Modernization Act of 2023 introduced by Representatives Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) is a reintroduction of a Bill considered in 2013.

The proposed Food Labeling Modernization Act will require front-of-package labeling specifying nutrients but also regulating visual imagery and text that could be regarded as deceptive.  Nutritional, ingredient and allergen information will be mandatory for the benefit of consumers.

Predictably the legislation is supported by the Center for Science in the Public Interest with the president of the activist group Dr. Peter G. Lurie stating, “Tackling our nations enormous burden of diet-related disease will require a whole-of-government approach.  With the Food Labeling Modernization Act of 2023 Congress joins the White House and Federal agencies in taking steps to improve the health of our nation’s food supply and in turn promote the health of our population.”

While detractors may point to a “nanny-state” approach to this legislation, there could in theory be benefits from enhanced nutritional labeling.  The problem is that those who are most at risk for obesity and metabolic disease neither read labels nor understand the significance of specific values. At the end of the day this demographic rejects the need for dietary understanding and moderation in favor of gratification. Unfortunately well-meaning legislators believe that human needs and behaviors can be altered by enacting laws and regulations. The changes contemplated will only be of value following extensive education of the target population over an extended period with multigenerational acceptance. As framed the Food Labeling Modernization Act will not have any beneficial effect and will cost manufacturers more than at present and will ultimately be passed on to all consumers. 

There is no evidence that either statutory or voluntary disclosure of caloric and other nutrient content of foods either on packaged labels or menu boards has any effect on obesity.