Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What does “healthy food” mean to you?
- Can you think of a food you like that might not be labeled as “healthy”? Why do you think that is?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- packaged /PA-kuhjd/
- definition /def-uh-NISH-uhn/
- sodium /SOH-dee-uhm/
- manufacturer /man-yuh-FAK-cher-er/
- reflect /ri-FLEKT/
[adjective] – sold in a package
She prefers to buy packaged snacks because they are more convenient for her busy schedule.
[noun] – a statement that explains the meaning of a word or concept
The teacher asked the students to write a definition of the new vocabulary word.
[noun] – a chemical element found in salt, commonly used in food preservation
High levels of sodium in the diet can contribute to high blood pressure.
[noun] – a company that produces goods in large numbers
Local manufacturers are working together to improve production efficiency.
[verb] – to show or express something clearly
Her actions reflect her strong sense of responsibility.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
On December 19, 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) introduced new regulations that require packaged foods to meet specific standards in order to be labeled as “healthy.” This update revises the FDA’s definition of “healthy,” which has been in place for 30 years. The change is intended to help consumers make healthier choices when shopping by aligning food labels with current federal dietary guidelines. The aim is to reduce the rising rates of diet-related diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
Under the new rules, foods must contain a certain amount of fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, or protein while limiting added sugars, sodium, and saturated fats. This means some foods, such as sugary cereals and sweetened yogurts, can no longer use the “healthy” label. The new rules will go into effect in two months, with food manufacturers having until February 2028 to comply. The update is based on more recent scientific research and reflects changes in our understanding of nutrition. Experts, including Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, have praised the update as a significant improvement. However, some industry groups, like the Consumer Brands Association, have raised concerns. They worry the changes could exclude some healthier options and have unintended economic effects on consumers. Despite these concerns, the FDA believes the new regulations will help improve public health.
Under the new rules, foods must contain a certain amount of fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, or protein while limiting added sugars, sodium, and saturated fats. This means some foods, such as sugary cereals and sweetened yogurts, can no longer use the “healthy” label. The new rules will go into effect in two months, with food manufacturers having until February 2028 to comply. The update is based on more recent scientific research and reflects changes in our understanding of nutrition. Experts, including Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, have praised the update as a significant improvement. However, some industry groups, like the Consumer Brands Association, have raised concerns. They worry the changes could exclude some healthier options and have unintended economic effects on consumers. Despite these concerns, the FDA believes the new regulations will help improve public health.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What is the new regulation introduced by the FDA?
- Why did the FDA change the definition of “healthy”?
- What types of foods must meet certain standards under the new rules?
- Which foods can no longer be labeled as “healthy” under the new rules?
- How long do food manufacturers have to comply with the new regulations?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever looked at food labels when you go shopping? If so, what information do you usually look for? If not, why do you think food labels are important?
- Do you like eating healthy foods? If so, what healthy foods do you eat often? If not, what makes it hard for you to eat healthy foods?
- Do you agree that food labels should show more information about sugar and fat content?
- Why do you think some foods, like sugary cereals, can no longer use the “healthy” label under the new rules?
- Why do you think some industry groups are worried about the new rules?