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Nutrition Consultants to the Food Industry

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New FDA Sodium Guidelines for the Food Industry

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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stepped in with new, voluntary sodium guidelines to reduce rates of preventable sodium-related chronic diseases. The FDA urges restaurants and food manufacturers to cut the salt in their products to reduce sodium by 12 percent over the next two and a half years.  Salt contains sodium, which is necessary for the body to work correctly. Sodium helps to keep fluids balanced and muscles and nerves working properly. Unfortunately, too much sodium can lead ... Full Article

Labeling Laws for Temporary Menu Items

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'Tis the season that we're seeing limited time only (LTO) foods added to menus. At the beginning of fall, it's pumpkin, spice, and everything nice. Are you unsure what the labeling laws are for these seasonal, LTO menu items? The FDA has made it very clear and concise, temporary menu items are exempt from menu labeling. According to the FDA (21 CFR 101.11(a)), a temporary menu item means a food that appears on a menu or menu board for less than a total of 60 days per calendar year. The 60 ... Full Article

Alcoholic Beverages Exempt from Menu Labeling

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Restaurants and similar food establishments covered under the FDA menu labeling legislation are required to post calories on their menus. Alcoholic beverages listed on a menu must also declare calories. However, there are some exemptions to keep in mind. Alcoholic drinks offered by your establishment but not listed on a menu, such as bottles of alcohol on display that are not self-serve and used for rail or mixed drinks, are exempt from menu labeling. For example, if a customer orders a gin ... Full Article

FDA Food Safety and Nutrition Survey (FSANS) Results

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Results from the FDA Food Safety and Nutrition Survey (FSANA) have been released. The survey assesses consumers' understanding of topics concerning food safety and nutrition. The survey findings help inform and shape decision-making to promote and protect public health. Here are some key findings that relate to nutrition analysis: Eighty-seven percent of respondents have looked at the Nutrition Facts label. In addition to watching calories, consumers also look for total sugar, sodium and ... Full Article

Menu Labeling and Added Sugar

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If you are familiar with the new Nutrition Facts label format established in 2016 it has a few changes from the old label, including the addition of "added sugar." We have received inquiries from restaurants wondering if they are required to provide information on added sugar under the menu labeling laws. Restaurants are not required to present those nutrients, including added sugar, that are on the new label that were not present on the old label. The final rule for restaurant menu labeling ... Full Article

Where Food, Nutrition, and Business Intersect

From analysis to labeling, restaurants and food manufacturers nationwide trust On The Menu to deliver accurate, scientifically-based results that adhere to FDA and food product regulations. Since 2004, On The Menu has distinguished itself with its personalized service, fast turnaround, and state-of-the-art approach that includes comprehensive nutrition analysis and allergen and gluten tracking services. On The Menu is ready to help you and your staff meet your customers’ needs.

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