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On January 14-15, 2004 the Carbohydrate Awareness Council
hosted the first annual CarbAware Executive Summit near the
nation's capitol. The meeting represented the first
organized gathering of industry executives to discuss the role
of the Carbohydrate Awareness Council, how it
will establish its positions and the pressing issues in the
minds of "low-carb" consumers and regulatory
agencies.
Summit Accomplishments:
1. It was agreed that the Carbohydrate Awareness
Council will use the following criteria as its foundation in
developing positions and disseminating information:
A. Is it a scientifically valid position backed by the
data and evidence available?
B. Is it an honest position?
C. Is it of service to our consumers
to take the position?
As the Carbohydrate Awareness Council publishes its position
papers and develops the guidelines for the CarbAware Certified
Seal, these questions will be at the forefront of the decision
making process. With these three questions, the CAC will
successfully implement its vision, provide value and maintain
its integrity.
2. As a group, attendees addressed the issue of
"net carb" claims for polyols based on the scientific evidence
to date. A position paper will
be created using the scientific evidence, attendee feedback
and consumer feedback from the Low-Carb
Consumer Survey available online through the end of
February.
3. As a group, attendees addressed the issue of
labeling "low-carb", "carb-free",
"reduced carb" and other descriptions common on food
products promoted for those eating a diet low in
carbohydrate. The group reached consensus by evaluating
the current FDA Labeling Guidelines for fats, sugars,
cholesterol and sodium. In addition it evaluated how these
definitions affect the "net carb" claims and
reached consensus on how the CAC should define these
terms for the CarbAware Certified Seal and in its
communications with regulatory agencies.
4. Attendees expressed a desire for the CAC to participate
in the current solicitations for comment and oral testimony
from the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee as they develop
recommendations for revisions to the U.S. Dietary
Guidelines. On January 16, 2004 the CAC submitted an
application to provide oral testimony before the Committee on
January 28, 2004.
Dr. Wilshire, MD is scheduled to testify before the
Committee on January 28, 2004 at 2:00PM.
The Second Annual CarbAware Executive Summit will be in
January 2005 - the date and location to be determined by May
1, 2004.
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