Seafood Qualifies for “Healthy” Claim Under FDA’s New Rule
The FDA has officially updated the definition of the voluntary “healthy” claim for food labeling—and seafood is at the forefront. This landmark change highlights seafood’s exceptional nutritional profile and positions it as a top choice for promoting health and wellness.
FDA’s New Definition of “Healthy”
In 2024, the FDA released its final rule updating the definition of “healthy,” which had remained unchanged since 1994. The updated rule, effective February 25, 2025, aligns with current nutritional science and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. A product can now carry the “healthy” label if it:
- Includes Food Group Equivalents (FGE): Contains a specific quantity from one or more food groups or subgroups, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, or protein foods.
- Meets Nutritional Thresholds: Complies with limits for sodium, added sugars, and saturated fats—three dietary components of public health concern.
Seafood, when unadulterated (except for water), automatically qualifies for the “healthy” claim due to its nutrient-rich composition.
Seafood’s Role in Healthy Diets
The FDA’s recognition solidifies seafood’s position as a cornerstone of healthy eating patterns. This acknowledgment is supported by the Seafood Nutrition Partnership (SNP), whose founder and president Linda Cornish stated, “We applaud the FDA for recognizing seafood’s role in the diet as ‘healthy.’ All seafood, including fatty fish such as salmon, automatically qualifies for the ‘healthy’ claim because of its nutrient profile and positive contribution to an overall healthy diet.”
Dr. Tom Brenna, Chair of SNP’s Scientific Nutrition Advisory Council (SNAC), emphasized the significance of this change: “Consuming seafood at least twice a week is an important component of a well-balanced diet. The ability for the industry to communicate that seafood is a healthy choice will help consumers recognize its importance.”
Implications for Restaurants, Food Distributors, and Healthcare Facilities
This new FDA rule is a game-changer for organizations sourcing, preparing, and serving food. Here’s why:
- Enhanced Marketing Opportunities: Highlight seafood dishes as “healthy” on menus and promotional materials to attract health-conscious consumers.
- Informed Sourcing Decisions: Food distributors can confidently promote seafood as meeting the highest standards for health and nutrition.
- Meeting Dietary Needs: Healthcare facilities can incorporate “healthy” seafood options into patient and staff meal plans, supporting wellness initiatives.
Why Seafood is the Ultimate “Healthy” Choice
Seafood is naturally high in essential nutrients, including:
- Omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health.
- High-quality protein for muscle maintenance and repair.
- Vitamins and minerals such as B12, selenium, and iodine.
The Bottom Line
This FDA update not only affirms the nutritional value of seafood but also empowers the industry to spotlight its benefits more effectively. Restaurants, food distributors, and healthcare facilities are uniquely positioned to leverage this change, offering consumers and clients the best in healthy, nutrient-packed options.
Choose Southstream Seafoods
At Southstream Seafoods, we’re proud to provide the healthcare industry, food distributors, and restaurants with premium products like Atlantic cod, wild-caught pollock, and more. Our brands, including Frostmark™, Thorfish, and I&J, are a testament to our dedication to quality and sustainability. Explore our diverse range of seafood on our website and contact us for more information.
This blog is based on information from a Seafood Nutrition article.
