FDA food labeling has a real impact on American’s health.

In a good way!

The research shows just how effective these strategies can be when attempting to change behaviors.

By labeling and banning trans fats a significant, positive change has occurred.

Blood levels of trans fat declined 58 percent from 2000 to 2008. FDA began requiring trans-fat labeling in 2003. During the same period several parts of the country — New York most famously — passed laws limiting trans fats in restaurant food and cooking. The makers of processed food also voluntarily replaced trans fats with less harmful oils.

The decline, unusually big and abrupt, strongly suggests government regulation was effective in altering a risk factor for heart disease for a broad swath of the population.