A new coalition known as Americans for Ingredient Transparency (AFIT) has been launched, garnering the support of various food, agricultural, and consumer product trade groups and companies. This initiative aims to establish a uniform national standard for ingredient transparency amid a growing trend of individual states implementing their own regulations. AFIT emphasizes the need for consistency to prevent a convoluted and fragmented set of rules regarding food, beverage, and personal care products, which could confuse consumers across the country.
Key areas of focus for AFIT include reforming the Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) process, enhancing front-of-package labeling, and promoting the use of QR codes for better consumer information. Moreover, the coalition aims to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to designate the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as the singular authority responsible for setting benchmarks for the marketing and sale of foods, beverages, and over-the-counter products in the United States.
This push for ingredient transparency is likely to resonate with consumers who are increasingly concerned about what goes into their food and personal care items, fostering a more informed public and potentially leading to better industry practices. By advocating for clear and consistent regulations, AFIT hopes to build consumer trust and enhance product safety across the marketplace.