A new online tool makes it easier for consumers to explore and interpret the Nutrition Facts Label.

In an effort to make it even easier for consumers to explore and interpret the information on the Nutrition Facts label, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched the new Nutrition Facts Label Online tool.

The FDA has issued final changes to update the Nutrition Facts label for packaged foods to reflect the latest scientific information, including the link between diet and chronic diseases. FDA will continue to educate consumers on all aspects of the new Nutrition Facts label, emphasizing the major changes and improvements that will be seen over the next two to three years.

The online tool from FDA provides an overview of the Nutrition Facts label that consumers see now and an in-depth look at specific nutrients and their role in daily diets. Action tips are also provided throughout, simplifying FDA’s advice for using the label to make informed choices and manage specific nutrients consumers may wish to get “more of” or “less of.” Here’s what can be found with the FDA’s new online tool:

• What’s on the Label: Consumers can tour the various sections of the label, and then focus on the nutrients they are most interested in. For each nutrient, the tool states what it is, where it’s found, what it does and how it relates to one’s daily diet.
• Ingredient List: Consumers can find tips for using the Ingredient List, which is also found on food and beverage packaging (often below the Nutrition Facts label). The Ingredient List is a helpful source for identifying whole grain ingredients, saturated fats and added sugars.
• Nutrition Glossary: Consumers can see common nutrition-related terms organized in alphabetical order with simple definitions.
• Resources: Site visitors can explore helpful links to additional information from FDA and other government partners. They can also use them for further research on nutrition-related topics.
• Downloadables: Those interested can access printable nutrition fact sheets to keep and share. Consumers can download the entire set, or focus on the particular elements of the Nutrition Facts Label that are of interest.

The Nutrition Facts Label Online offers a unique overview of the label and each of its elements. Consumers can discover and “bookmark” the interactive tool for use in meal planning and refer to it on their mobile device when shopping, too. By using the online tool, consumers can familiarize themselves with the Nutrition Facts label to compare foods and beverages, and be equipped to make informed nutrition choices that support a healthy diet.

FDA is also proposing to update the Nutrition Facts label for packaged foods.