Are Warning Labels on Unhealthy Foods a Good Idea?

1. Set Focus
Frame the inquiry with theis essential question: What is the ideal balance between public policy and personal responsibility in a democracy?

2. Read and Discuss
Have students read the debate and then answer the following questions:

• What is the issue being debated? How does it relate to current events? (The issue is whether the U.S. should require food companies to put warning labels on unhealthy foods. The issue is timely because Chile and several other countries have already mandated warning labels, and other countries are considering the idea.)

• Evaluate why these two authors might be interested in and qualified to comment on this issue. (Frances Fleming-Milici works for an organization that promotes proper nutrition. Bentley works for a foundation that advocates for limited government.)

• Analyze Fleming-Milici’s view. (Fleming-Milici argues in favor of warning labels. She says people often don’t realize they are choosing unhealthy food because the packaging is usually designed to confuse rather than inform about nutritional content. She also says the research shows that warning labels help consumers make better food choices.)

• Analyze Bentley’s view. (Bentley argues against warning labels. He says people already know how to make healthy choices, and such labels only serve to stigmatize products and the people who consume them. He says the study that shows warning labels work is flawed and claims those labels are just a way for politicians to limit our freedom.)
  

4. Writing Prompt
In an essay, evaluate one of the debaters’ arguments. Assess whether the reasoning is valid and whether it’s supported with evidence. Point out biases or missing information.

5. Classroom Debate
Should the U.S. require warning labels on unhealthy foods? Have students use the authors’ ideas, as well as their own, in a debate.

6. Vote
Go online to vote in Upfront’s poll—and see how students across the country voted.