FDA warns food producers about inaccurate nutritional claims on groceries

FDA cracking down on inaccurate food labels

WASHINGTON — Federal health officials say nutritional logos from food manufacturers may be misleading consumers about the actual health benefits of cereal, crackers and other processed foods.

The Food and Drug Administration issued a letter to companies that says the agency will begin cracking down on inaccurate food labeling.

U.S. manufacturers, including Kraft Foods and General Mills, rolled out their so-called Smart Choices program last year, amid growing concern about obesity rates. The green labels appear on the front of boxed foods that meet certain standards for calories per serving and number of servings.

But consumer advocates complain about lax standards for the program, with logos appearing on everything from frozen sweets to sugary cereals.