The Principal Display Panel (PDP) Front Packaging Must Contain Which Of The Following?
A. Serving Size
B. Calories Per Serving
C. Macronutrient Distribution
D. Claims And Product Features
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is B. Calories Per Serving.
Explanation:
The Principal Display Panel (PDP) is the part of a food product’s packaging that is most visible to consumers. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires certain information to be clearly displayed on the PDP to ensure that consumers have essential details about the product they are purchasing. This information helps consumers make informed decisions regarding their food choices.
Among the options provided, calories per serving is the one that is explicitly required on the PDP. Here’s why:
- Calories Per Serving (B):
The FDA mandates that the calories per serving be displayed on the PDP of most packaged foods. This is part of the nutritional labeling requirements designed to help consumers understand the caloric content of the food they consume, allowing them to manage their energy intake. The total calories per serving, along with the serving size, must be presented in a way that is easy for consumers to read and comprehend. This is a key piece of nutritional information for people managing their diets, especially those who are monitoring their caloric intake for health or weight management purposes. - Serving Size (A):
Although the serving size is crucial for understanding the nutritional content of a product, it does not have to be listed on the PDP. Instead, it appears in the Nutrition Facts panel, which is located on the side or back of the packaging. The serving size, however, is important because it helps consumers contextualize the information on calories and other nutrients listed. - Macronutrient Distribution (C):
The macronutrient distribution (the breakdown of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates) is typically displayed on the Nutrition Facts panel, not on the PDP. While it’s valuable for consumers to know this information, it is not required on the PDP. - Claims and Product Features (D):
Claims and product features (like “low-fat,” “gluten-free,” or “high in protein”) can be present on the PDP, but they are not mandatory. These are often used as marketing tools and are subject to FDA regulations regarding the accuracy and truthfulness of claims, but they do not have to be listed in the same way as calorie content.
In summary, the most important information that must be shown on the PDP in relation to the options given is the calories per serving. This is a vital piece of nutritional information that helps consumers make healthier choices.