Table 2.

Summary of science on front-of-package (FOP)/shelf labelling systems

•The Multiple Traffic Light label is the FOP system with the greatest empirical support. •FOP labels should convey calories per serving, daily caloric requirements and specific nutrient levels with high/medium/low text. •Highlighted nutrients should be associated with the most prevalent health problems in the USA. •Nutrients appearing on an FOP or shelf label will likely be the greatest focus of industry reformulation. •Products consumed in one sitting should contain calorie information per package. •Labels should be prominent in size and consistently displayed on the top-right of the package. •Shelf-labelling systems such as ‘Guiding Stars’ and ‘Special Diet Alert’ hold promise. •The labelling system should be viewed as a credible and trusted source of information. •More research is needed to test potential FOP and shelf labelling systems among diverse US populations.