Analytical Methods for Assessing Nutritional Label Claims and Compliance in Food Packaging

A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Accurate assessment of nutritional label claims and compliance in food packaging is crucial for consumer protection and ensuring transparent food labeling practices. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent literature on analytical methods for assessing nutritional label claims and compliance in food packaging. The review highlights the importance of accurate and reliable analytical techniques in verifying the accuracy of nutritional label claims and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Various instrumental techniques, such as chromatography and spectrometry, have been widely employed for quantitative analysis of macronutrients, micronutrients, and bioactive compounds. Emerging trends in rapid and non-destructive techniques, such as near-infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, offer promising avenues for faster and more efficient assessment. Challenges including sample preparation, matrix effects, and method validation are also discussed. Standardization, regulatory enforcement, and collaboration among stakeholders are emphasized to promote transparency and accuracy in nutritional labeling practices.