Last December, the FDA introduced new regulations updating the definition of the term “healthy” on food labels and is working on developing a standardized symbol.
The amendment establishes stricter and more specific criteria for using the “healthy” qualification. Among the foods highlighted for the nutritional profile, olive oil is now included among the products that can be labeled as “healthy” (it was not before).
Under the new rules, nutrient-rich foods such as olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish such as salmon are automatically considered “healthy.” This is due to the positive nutritional profile and contribution to a balanced diet. Olive oil, known for its high content of healthy fats and antioxidants, is a mainstay of the Mediterranean diet and can now be officially promoted as a food that encourages healthy eating patterns. The category includes fresh, frozen, and canned foods that fit different budgets, making healthy options accessible to more consumers.
The new regulations emphasize the presence of key food groups, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy and lean proteins, and specific limits for added sugars, saturated fats and sodium. This marks a change from previous regulations, which focused more on the total amount of fats and nutrients such as vitamins A and C. Under the new criteria, foods that were previously considered healthy, such as fortified white bread or sugary cereals, are no longer healthy. do not meet the updated standards.
https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-food-labeling-and-critical-foods/use-term-healthy-food-labeling
Infografica https://www.fda.gov/media/184534/download?attachment
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