The evolution of national nutrition policy

Domestic regulatory efforts in the area of nutrition historically have focused on achieving and sustaining the highest possible level of food safety and availability. More recently, the linkages between certain dietary practices and the risk of chronic, degenerative diseases have also become a significant focus of public policy. In order to promote good nutrition practices, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now requires a detailed and informative Nutrition Facts food label on virtually all food packages. Other public policies promoted by the FDA and others include increasing public knowledge of the relationship between diet and health; promoting unified food and nutrition policies among all government agencies; educating the American consumer about sound dietary practices; and encouraging the development of technologies that may result in more healthful, more abundant, and more affordable foods.