The Meaning of ‘Natural’, the FDA Wants Your Thoughts

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The use of the term ‘natural’ as it applies to food has been the result of a great deal of controversy. Many ‘natural’ claims have been litigated over the years over the inclusion of foods containing genetically modified foods or manufacturing processes of foods (i.e. converting corn starch to sweetener).

There have been several petitions to the FDA asking for clarification of what can be claimed as ‘natural’ on a food label. Presently, FDA’s policy states that ‘natural’ means foods that are composed only of substances that are not manmade and that nothing artificial or synthetic has been included. Petitions vary widely. For instance, one petition requests a prohibition for using the term ‘natural’. Another asks for a determination on whether genetic engineered foods or foods containing HFCS can be considered natural.

The request for comments asks:

  • Should the FDA define the term ‘natural?
  • Should the FDA prohibit the use of the term ‘natural’?
  • What types of foods should be allowed to be called ‘natural’?
  • Do consumers confuse the term ‘natural’ with ‘organic’ or ‘healthy’?
  • Should the food manufacturing process be considered?
  • Are there public health benefits in defining the term ‘natural’ in foods?

Golden Growers does not believe the manufacturing process should be considered in the definition. We also think that prohibiting the use of genetically modified foods will result on only organic foods to achieve the label of natural.

If you would like to submit a comment, click on the following link and follow directions to post comments.

FDA Requests Comments on the Use of the Term ‘Natural’ in Food Labeling