Have you noticed a new look on food packages lately? Nutrition facts labels are getting a much-needed update! While you may still see both versions on store shelves for now, the new label is designed to provide clearer, more helpful information about what you're eating.
Here’s what’s changed:
Serving Sizes & Calorie Counts
The new label features more realistic serving sizes to reflect how people actually eat.
Calorie counts are displayed in larger, bolder font to make them easier to see at a glance.
For products often consumed in one sitting—like ice cream, soda, and chips—there’s now an additional column showing the nutrients and calories in the entire container, not just a single serving.
Added Sugars Highlighted
In addition to listing Total Sugars, the new label breaks out Added Sugars—the extra sweeteners added during production.
This change makes it easier to spot how much sugar comes from natural sources (like fruit or milk) versus what’s been added.
Remember: carbohydrates (including naturally occurring sugars) are a vital part of our diet and provide important energy!
Updated Micronutrient Information
Out with Vitamin A and Vitamin C, in with Vitamin D and Potassium!
Why the switch? Research shows Americans are already getting enough Vitamins A and C but are often deficient in Vitamin D and Potassium—key nutrients for bone health, muscle function, and overall wellness.
Calcium and Iron remain on the list because they’re still essential nutrients many people need more of.
Streamlined Design
To keep things simple, the Percent Daily Values Chart at the bottom has been removed. Instead, the new label focuses on the most important daily value percentages, listed right next to the nutrients themselves.
Next time you're shopping for healthy snacks to fuel your training, take a closer look at the nutrition facts label. It’s a small but powerful tool to help you make informed choices for your health and performance!