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 was published December 1, 2014. This ruling preceded the final rule on the revision of the Nutrition Facts Label, that was published on May 27, 2016.

The question is, can restaurants voluntarily provide information on added sugar? Absolutely! If your food establishment is required to abide by the menu labeling laws, you will still need to comply with the final ruling. However, that does not prevent you from giving your customers additional information that may help with their food choices.

Below are examples of the old and new formatted Nutrition Facts labels, respectively. If you have questions on menu labeling, contact us at On The Menu.