In response to today's launch of a front-of-pack labeling initiative by the food and beverage industry, Susan K. Neely, president and CEO of the American Beverage Association, issued the following statement:

"We applaud the Grocery Manufacturers Association and Food Marketing Institute for taking this important step to further educate consumers with its Nutrition Keys initiative. Today's announcement is yet another significant demonstration of the food and beverage industry's ongoing commitment to transparency by providing consumers with fact-based information. Both Nutrition Keys and the beverage industry's Clear on Calories initiatives are part of a broad effort to support First Lady Michelle Obama's goal to end childhood obesity in a generation.

As our nation struggles with the complex challenge of obesity, the food and beverage industry continues to step up to be part of the solution. By providing consumers with clear and accessible information right on the front of our packages, we are giving them what they need to make the choices that are best for them."

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The American Beverage Association is the trade association representing the broad spectrum of companies that manufacture and distribute non-alcoholic beverages in the United States.