What FDA’s Redefining of “Healthy” Means For Consumers

Just a few years ago, low-fat foods were all the rage. In the late 1990s, trans fats were the only thing with a bigger scandal than Bill Clinton. Unlike the former president, trans fats have a reputation that has been ruined forever, and perhaps rightfully so. These fats are chemically induced, have almost zero health benefits and contribute to clogged arteries, thus increasing the risk of a heart attack. Despite this, avoiding fats altogether is detrimental to your health.

For many years, the Food and Drug Administration prescribed a set of low-fat guidelines that placed fatty foods like olive oil or even nuts at the “use sparingly” distinction. In stark contrast, sugary breakfast cereals like Honey Smacks could market themselves as “healthy,” despite more than 50 percent of their content being pure sugar. Most nutritionists agree this overwhelming influx of additives like high fructose corn syrup and monosodium glutamate have played a sizable role in the obesity epidemic.

The FDA’s decision to consider altering guidelines for sugar and fat content is influenced by Kind, a company which makes all-natural granola bars. Last year, the FDA told this company it cannot market its products as “healthy” due to fat content over three grams. However, the monounsaturated fat in Kind bars is derived from natural sources like almonds, pistachios and canola oil. The company then decided to petition the FDA to change guidelines regarding fat and sugar content. Currently, top nutritionists are collaborating to come up with an updated set of rules to match our growing understanding of food and how it impacts the body.