FDA Logo U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationCenter for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
horizontal rule
The front of a generic food package. Food Labeling and NutritionThe back of a generic food package.


Calories Count Report, March 12, 2004
 

Overview

These FDA Food Labeling web pages address the labeling requirements for foods under the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act and its amendments. Food labeling is required for most prepared foods, such as breads, cereals, canned and frozen foods, snacks, desserts, drinks, etc. Nutrition labeling for raw produce (fruits and vegetables) and fish is voluntary. We refer to these products as "conventional" foods. For detailed information on dietary supplements, a special category of products that comes under the general umbrella of foods, but which has separate labeling requirements, see "dietary supplements."*

* Terms such as "functional foods" or "nutraceuticals" are widely used in the marketplace. Such foods are regulated by FDA under the authority of the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act, even though they are not specifically defined by law.

About the Office of Nutritional Products, Labeling, and Dietary Supplements

FDA-DSFL Electronic Newsletter

The Dietary Supplements/Food Labeling Electronic Newsletter (FDA-DSFL) gives interested parties access to key information and updates on dietary supplements, food labeling, and nutrition.

Recent Announcements

horizontal rule