New Beverage Calorie Labels Arrive In Stores

The American Beverage Association announced last week the rollout of calorie labels on the front of non-alcoholic beverages, as part of its "Clear on Calories" initiative. The association's voluntary commitment to make calorie counts more prominent supports First Lady Michelle Obama's efforts to help families make informed food and drink choices.
"The new labels put calorie information at the fingertips of consumers at every point of purchase so they can choose the beverage that is right for them and their families," said Susan Neely, president and chief executive officer of the American Beverage Association. "By putting the calories on the front of beverages, we're making it easier for consumers to make informed choices. It's one more way that America's beverage companies are doing their part to help people achieve a healthy weight by balancing their diet and physical activity."
Beverage companies will be including the calorie labels on the front of every can, bottle, and pack they produce for beverages 20 fluid ounces or smaller. The labels have begun rolling out in stores across the nation, and they are expected to be on the front of all major brands by June, and on all brands by early 2012.