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What does the word healthy mean?

This is the first FDA update of the label in decades.

However, the new definition emphasizes supporting a balanced, nutrient-dense dietary pattern.

Fruit and vegetable aisle

Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

Public health experts say the new definition will help guide consumers toward nutritious choices.

What Does the FDA Consider Healthy?

The limits on added sugar, sodium, and saturated fat vary for different food types.

The new label now only limits saturated fats, sodium, and added sugar.

Other countries already do this.

Will The New Healthy Claim Lead to Healthier Diets?

It might serve to push food manufacturers to reformulate some products to meet the stricter standards.

So its always good to kind of think about yourself in the context of the recommendations, she said.

While the new standards encourage eating more fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, individual needs vary.

Food and Drug Administration.A fresh take on what healthy means on food packages.

Food and Drug Administration.FDA finalizes updated healthy nutrient content claim.

Food and Drug Administration.Use of the term healthy on food labeling.

Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health.Types of fat.

National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus.Facts about polyunsaturated fats.

National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus.Facts about monounsaturated fats.

Department of Health and Human Services Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.Cut down on saturated fats.

National Health Service (U.K.).Food labels.

Health Star Rating.About health star ratings.