The food industry faces more scrutiny in 2004 as Congress, consumer activists, and regulators focus on obesity. But milk producers and processors believe they are well positioned to benefit from growing obesity awareness, and are promoting their products as "part of the solution" to the problem of overweight Americans. FDA has signaled its intention to use tools within FDA's jurisdiction, which includes food labeling and packaging rules, to combat obesity.
In comments to FDA, the International Dairy Foods Association made its case for dairy's nutritional value, along with new and emerging scientific research that it says suggests a link between dairy consumption and reduced body weight. Industry officials believe FDA is leaning toward mandating changes to food label and packaging requirements as a major part of its action plan, in an effort to communicate more effectively with consumers about achieving better nutrition through dietary choices.