Comments on: Who SHOULD we trust for food info?

By: suzannabanana23

suzannabanana23 — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 18:21:24 +0000

Help! I think I’m just more confused. I guess “price” will continue to be the most important label for me!

By: Lisa

Lisa — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 18:07:06 +0000

Suzannabanna23–YES, labels can be confusing! With the multiple claims that appear on packaging, you might be surprised to learn that all these labels ARE regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and sometimes the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). FDA requires that food labels convey information that is truthful and not misleading…which is why there’s an active debate now on what products can be categorized as “natural.” Right now that label is open to interpretation, but FDA has been petitioned to define when “natural” can be used to promote a product.

USDA has established clear guidelines for labeling foods organic — and notes that they have done so to provide clear guidance for marketing purposes, not health and safety. The organic label helps consumers to know how a food was produced, and isn’t a testament to health or safety. There are four labeling categories that can be viewed here: http://www.ams.usda.gov/nop/Consumers/brochure.html. I hope this helps clear up labeling confusion for you!

By: suzannabanana23

suzannabanana23 — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 16:04:52 +0000

I find labels so confusing! I look at the meat case and there are so many different kinds of labels — it’s overwhelming and feels kind of like a marketing scam. I just buy what looks good and is in my budget. When it comes to things like toothpaste, I don’t even want to talk about it. There are so many different types of brands that I nearly have an epileptic seizure trying to decide what to buy. Goodness gracious — is “brand manager” a new well-paid MBA career path and do we all have to suffer because it is?

By: Erikka

Erikka — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 16:39:55 +0000

I think people trust the food and labels on the food they get at local retail stores, not the pre-teen baggers.

There is a big disconnect between people and their food…and people and the government if people do not realize it is THAT machine which sets the rules which creates the labels on their food. It is sad and frustrating.

By: Sara

Sara — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 15:48:19 +0000

Activists have their place and are important for bringing issues to light. HOWEVER, their message is more often than not, one-sided or slanted to support a point. I am by nature a trusting person, but have come to read everything in food/ag issues with a devil’s advocate view, wondering how other sectors/viewopoints would present it. As my Dad used to say; there are at least three sides to every story-yours, mine and the truth.