Kinzinger bill would put science-based nutrition labels on consumer products

U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) on March 2 introduced bipartisan legislation that would require improved nutrition information be placed on consumer product labels.

Rep. Kinzinger sponsored the Accurate Labels Act, H.R. 6044, with lead cosponsor U.S. Rep. Kurt Schrader (D-OR), which also would prevent companies from issuing inaccurate labels that mislead consumers and drive up prices, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Kinzinger’s office.

“I’m proud to introduce bipartisan legislation with my colleague, Rep. Schrader, as we work to establish science-based criteria for labeling requirements, while still ensuring that legitimate risks are taken seriously,” said Rep. Kinzinger. “The Accurate Labels Act is a commonsense measure to guarantee clear and accurate product labels for consumers.”

If enacted, H.R. 6044 would establish science-based criteria for all additional state and local labeling requirements; permit state-mandated product information to be provided through smartphone-enabled “smart labels” and on websites; and ensure that covered product information is risk-based, according to the bill summary.

“Consumers deserve full transparency on the products they’re buying, no matter where they live or shop,” Rep. Kinzinger said. “Oftentimes, due to various state laws, items are incorrectly labeled with warnings about harms that do not exist. This inaccuracy creates confusion and fear for the consumers, desensitizes the public from heeding serious warnings on health risks, and imposes unnecessary and costly regulatory burdens for producers.”

Rep. Schrader added that the lawmakers “want to make sure our constituents have confidence in the information they are receiving so they are able to make informed decisions about the products that they use.”

The legislation is supported by the Coalition for Accurate Product Labels, which includes the American Chemistry Council, the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, and the National Products Association, among other trade groups.