Transparency, Readability, Understandability, Truth, and Helpfulness in Labeling Act; TRUTH in Labeling Act
Summary
The "Transparency, Readability, Understandability, Truth, and Helpfulness in Labeling Act" (TRUTH in Labeling Act) aims to strengthen nutrient information requirements on food labels. It mandates front-of-package labeling detailing high amounts of added sugars, sodium, or saturated fat, and requires disclosure of non-nutritive sweeteners with advisories for children. The bill directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to finalize a proposed rule on front-of-package nutrition information within 180 days of enactment.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to changes in food labeling practices, making it easier for consumers to identify foods high in certain nutrients. This could influence consumer choices and potentially encourage food manufacturers to reformulate products. The impact will depend on how effectively the labeling requirements are implemented and how consumers respond to the new information.
Potential Benefits
- Improved consumer awareness of nutrient content in food.
- Potential for healthier food choices by consumers.
- Possible reformulation of food products by manufacturers to reduce levels of added sugars, sodium, and saturated fat.
- Better information for parents regarding non-nutritive sweeteners in foods marketed to children.
- Alignment of Daily Values with current Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs for food manufacturers to implement new labeling requirements.
- Possible consumer confusion if labeling is not clear and easily understandable.
- Risk of unintended consequences, such as manufacturers replacing unhealthy ingredients with other potentially harmful substitutes.
- Possible disproportionate impact on lower-income individuals if reformulated healthier foods become more expensive.
- Enforcement challenges for the Secretary of Health and Human Services.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to promote public health by providing consumers with better information about the food they eat. While the Constitution does not explicitly address food labeling, Congress has broad authority to regulate interstate commerce, which includes the regulation of food products. The First Amendment implications regarding compelled speech (requiring manufacturers to disclose information) are potentially relevant, but the government's interest in public health is likely to outweigh these concerns.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).