Use new nutrition labeling programs as tools, but don't neglect the more reliable "Nutrition Facts" label. And, most important, eat fewer packaged foods.

The smartest choice may not bear a green checkmark.

RODALE NEWS, EMMAUS, PA—What consumer wouldn't appreciate a big stamp on the front of a box of cereal, or pack of crackers, or can of soup that essentially says, "Eat me! I'm healthy"? That was the thinking behind Smart Choices, a new nutrition-labeling program developed by a nonprofit coalition of scientists, nutritionists, consumer groups, and food industry leaders. However, when the program rolled out in August and the Smart Choices' identifying green check mark started appearing on Froot Loops, microwave popcorn, and a wide variety of other foods that don't necessarily bring "healthy" to mind, eyebrows were raised, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stepped in.

THE DETAILS: The Smart Choices nutrition-labeling program is designed to help consumers identify healthier choices among any given group of products. In order to qualify for the symbol, foods (including processed foods, and also meat, dairy products, and produce) must meet certain benchmark criteria for "Nutrients to Limit," such as fat, cholesterol, added sugars, and sodium. Certain categories of processed foods must also include "Nutrients to Encourage," things like calcium, fiber, vitamin C, and a few other vitamins and minerals that are often lacking in diets, according to the government's Dietary Guidelines for Americans. However, when the label debuted, appearing largely on processed foods like sugary cereals and snacks, the FDA wrote a letter to the general manager of the program expressing concern that the label could be misleading and could have the effect "of encouraging consumers to choose highly processed foods and refined grains instead of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains."

WHAT IT MEANS: "As a registered dietician, I like that there is a label to help the consumer identify better choices," says Keri Gans, RD, spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association (ADA). "It's a good first step in combating obesity. But this particular program could be misleading to some consumers." For instance, the ADA scrutinized the label when it launched and discovered that Frosted Flakes would qualify for the symbol because they're made with fortified grains, meet the required benchmark for calories, and are low in added sugar. However, a single serving of Perdue Perfect Portions Skinless Boneless Chicken Breast would not because it exceeds the cholesterol and sodium requirements (likely due to the fact that large meat producers "enhance" their products with saltwater).