1. Why did OFFA decide not to put a limit on actual grams of sugar per serving for OFF food choices?

 

ANSWER: OFF food options are portion controlled and nutrient dense given approved items are low in fat, saturated fat, no trans fat and no added sugars allowed beyond the allowable caloric content.  In addition, current nutrition facts labels do not differentiate from natural vs. added sugars.

 

2. Why did you decide not to have a limit for total carbohydrates per serving for OFF food choices?

 

ANSWER: OFF food options are portion controlled and nutrient dense given approved items are low in fat, saturated fat, no trans fat and no added sugars allowed beyond the allowable caloric content. Therefore, total carbohydrates would be appropriate for the allowed food items. In addition, per the ADA EAL, the most important issue is total calories for weight control versus focusing on individual macronutrients. It is not necessary to count carbohydrates to achieve optimal weight control.

 

3. Why did you decide not to have a recommended amount of protein per serving of OFF food choices?

 

ANSWER: Per the ADA EAL, the most important issue is total calories for weight control versus focusing on individual macronutrients. It is not necessary to count protein to achieve optimal weight control if an overall balanced and healthy meal plan is followed using USDA Dietary Guidelines.

 

4. Why do you exclude all trans fats (hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils), artificial colorings, additives, and artificial sweeteners?

 

ANSWER: It is the overall philosophy of OFF program to limit the ingredients in foods and achieve a whole foods approach to eating.

 

5. How did you decide upon serving sizes?

 

ANSWER: Serving sizes were determined using a combination of licensed nutrition professional’s expertise, diabetes exchange lists, and USDA Dietary Guidelines, 2010 information. Some of the food groups do not specify serving size and instead focus on total intake per day. For example, the recommendation for fruit is an overall intake of approximately 2 1/2 cups per day for adults from a combination of fresh, canned, frozen or dried varieties. In addition, serving size consumed at a meal or snack will vary depending upon the individual’s current weight, activity level, and overall meal pattern (size of meals and frequency). If an individual hasn’t eaten for 7 hours, the serving sizes may need to be higher to meet caloric needs than if a meal was eaten 3-4 hours previously. Also, if the previous meal was very small, an individual may need larger serving sizes. The OFF program encourages consistent, regular meals and snacks within total caloric needs to achieve optimal control of hunger and body weight.