Mandatory Nutrition Labeling (ACA) - Leslye Barth

     Nutrition labeling in the US has become a hot topic since the enactment of the Affordable Care Act. Though the Act contains mandatory labeling laws, the enforcement of these laws has been delayed a few years as Congress and the FDA faced strong opposition from pizza and movie theater chains. The mandatory labeling component of the ACA requires restaurants with more than 20 chains to publish nutritional information, as well as any prepackaged single-serving foods at grocery stores (e.g. pre-made sandwiches, salads, etc.). Those against the mandate cite the large and costly regulatory burden that is now placed on dining establishments. Mandatory menu labeling will take "menu costs" to an entirely new level. Furthermore, they argue that the FDA overextended its power by interpreting the rule to apply not only to chain restaurants but also to grocery stores. 

     However, in my opinion, the government's interest in helping consumers make better nutritional choices will pay off. Mandatory food labeling will protect and strengthen access to healthy, nutritious food and will serve as a strong educational tool for all Americans. This is a step in the right direction to correct the asymmetric information in the food marketplace. As a health conscious individual, I am thrilled to have the ability to make more educated choices when dining in chain restaurants. On a broader spectrum, the US is fighting an obesity epidemic -- more information for consumers will prompt healthier choices and ultimately better long-term dietary habits. In fact, a 2008 study of 100 million cash register transactions at Starbucks found a 6% decrease in average calories purchased after calorie posting, indicating success of the policy. Mandatory food labeling will help to defeat the epidemic in the US, while lowering (the currently skyrocketing) health care costs. The benefits of mandatory labeling will greatly exceed the costs forced onto restaurants, and I look forward to seeing our nation move towards healthier eating habits.