Following requests from the industry, the FDA has issued a delay on when restaurants and supermarkets must comply with new menu labeling rules. The new compliance date is Dec. 1, 2016, one year after the original date.
“The FDA agrees additional time is necessary for the agency to provide further clarifying guidance to help facilitate efficient compliance across all covered businesses and for covered establishments to come into compliance with the final rule,” FDA deputy commissioner for foods and veterinary medicine Michael Taylor said in a statement.
The FDA also plans to issue a draft guidance document in August to answer common questions about compliance. The industry will have an opportunity to provide feedback on the guidance.
Industry groups welcomed the announcement but said more needs to be done to address concerns.
“We’re encouraged that FDA’s commitment will give us more time to at least garner some clarity and answers without feeling rushed to make difficult business decisions in an attempt to comply by December 1, 2015 with regulations that are unclear,” FMI president and CEO Leslie Sarasin said in a statement.
Greg Ferrara, NGA VP of public affairs, in a statement also said further action is needed.
“While NGA appreciates the FDA recognizing the need for a delay, there are still are concerns surrounding implementation of the law. We will continue to work with our champions in Congress, Reps. McMorris Rodgers and Sanchez, to pass H.R. 2017, which reduces the burdens of this regulation and provides the necessary reforms and flexibility to our members.”
Suggested Categories | More from Supermarket News |
![]() |
|
![]() |