Provides document to help c-stores navigate new regulations.
The National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) is offering a brief summary and compliance guide to help c-stores navigate the final menu-labeling regulations put forth by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) last November, which are set to go into effect in December 2015.
The rules impact menu-labeling requirements at restaurants and “similar retail food establishments.” The final rule applies to more entities than originally anticipated, including many convenience stores. Establishments that are covered by the menu-labeling regulations must post calories for standard menu items on menus or menu boards or, for self-service items and foods on display, on signs adjacent to the items. They also will be required to provide additional written nutrition information to consumers upon request.
Unfortunately, much of the menu-labeling rule’s requirements are unclear, as they apply to convenience stores, NACS noted. “This is in part because the law is designed primarily for chain restaurants, and applying it to convenience stores creates many complexities that FDA does not adequately appreciate,” NACS reported.
In the coming months, NACS aims to work with the relevant federal officials to obtain guidance and clarification on certain aspects of the menu-labeling rule. NACS will also continue working with key members of Congress to pass legislation limiting the rule’s coverage to establishments for which the “primary business activity” is selling restaurant-type food.
Still, it’s important for retailers to review and gain an understanding of the requirements and begin developing compliance strategies.
The guidance can be found at:
http://www.nacsonline.com/News/Daily/Documents/2014/ND010715_MenuLabelingCompliance.pdf