All federal food policy is based on the recommendations stemming from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The American Bakers Association (ABA) leads the Grain Chain, an organization of 10 groups from grain growers and millers, as well as bakers and others who have an interest in growing grain consumption. On behalf of the Grain Chain, ABA is calling for an additional whole grain serving, which would mean a total of seven servings of grain daily for Americans. Research overwhelmingly touts the benefits of grain consumption, and we are excited to present that scientific evidence to the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. Grains are a nutrient-dense, sustainable, plant-based food, and we are hopeful the committee will recognize the importance of this food group in the American diet. Unfortunately, consumer data shows that Americans are significantly falling short on their consumption of whole grains. Getting an additional serving of whole grains in the recommendations would be a big step toward addressing this nutrient of deficiency in the American diet.
Nutrition Facts. The FDA has granted food manufacturers a six-month enforcement discretion for the new Nutrition Facts Labeling (NFL) rules. The baking industry has always been transparent with its customers and consumers. Product labeling is an important component to helping customers and consumers to make informed choices about the products they buy to feed their families. ABA—as co-chair of the Food & Beverage Issue Alliance (FBIA)—requested enforcement discretion for the new NFL rules. Because of this request, and others like it, the FDA will work cooperatively with manufacturers to meet the new requirements and will not focus on enforcement actions regarding the new NFL requirements for the first 6 months following the January 1, 2020 compliance date.