Influencing the “Natural” Food Label with the FDA
When you think about the word “natural”, what exactly comes to mind? What do you think “natural” food is? Well right now, the meaning of the word is completely ambiguous in the food realm. There are no set guidelines used by food companies to determine exactly what “natural” is. I’m not going into what “natural” food is today, but I wanted to share with you that your voice matters, and what exactly is your opportunity in the whole process of defining the word.
I was encouraged to hear last week on the Dr. Oz show that we have the opportunity to influence what exactly the “natural” food label means with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are allowing comments on the “Natural” food label now through May 10, 2016. It is a really easy form to fill out and doesn’t have to take a long time (unless you can’t help yourself).
The following is my comment to the FDA. I’ve included my comment because I thought it might spark others to voice their concerns. After reading my comment again, I wish I would have stated exactly how I would define the “natural” term. I’ve already submitted it though. Anyway, I bet you can do better!
The term “natural” evokes a certain thought in my (and I am sure many other’s) mind that means untouched. As is. Not changed or messed with. The general public often trusts what is written. When the word “natural” can be stamped unregulated on food products, people are deceived. When the FDA doesn’t regulate a term, some companies take liberties that the public may not deem as “natural” such as using high fructose corn syrup, genetically modified organisms, or grown with man-made chemicals. Please consider defining the term “natural”, and giving accountability to the term.
So if you are concerned with how are foods are labeled and exactly what they mean, I encourage you to go to this page and submit a comment.
You can read tips from the government on submitting effective comments here.
What are your thoughts about the “natural” food label?
Thanks for the information. It seems we need to have a dictionary with us when we shop to see what is in our food. I must say, though, I’m at the point that if I can’t pronounce it, and don’t know what it is, I walk away. I go without some old favorites, but I’m learning new favorites. I never thought I’d ever drink a green drink that tasted like my front lawn, but I’ve actually grown to almost like them! LOL Again, thanks for the info. I put in my two cents worth.
Hi Kathy. You are welcome for the info. Good job walking away. I’m so glad you gave your input!!