How would you define "healthy"? The FDA wants to know
LOS ANGELES - Most of us do our best to eat at least somewhat healthy, but does anyone actually know what "healthy" food is? Anyone?
The FDA currently defines "healthy" as "an implied nutrient content claim" in line with dietary recommendations- but the description leaves a lot up to interpretation. Food manufacturers have now caught on, and are able to manipulate the term to fit their products- whether they're healthy or not!
One example is KIND granola bars. KIND labels their snack bars as "healthy and tasty," despite failing to meet minimum standards set by the FDA. When the FDA challenged them, KIND argued that the label is not an actual nutrition claim, but a "corporate philosophy." Right...
Eventually, the FDA caved, allowing the misleading tag to remain on KIND products, but now it's seeking to redefine "healthy" altogether. The FDA has asked the public to share any opinions on the meaning of the term, hoping to take the first step toward a new and clearer definition.
We're really interested to see what the general consensus is. Will we come up with a wholesome, honest definition, or will we take this opportunity to make things like bacon and chocolate cake the health foods of the future?! Yum!