WASHINGTON - The American Beverage Association announced earlier this week the rollout of calorie labels on the front of non-alcoholic beverages, part of its Clear on Calories initiative. The association's voluntary commitment to make calorie counts more prominent supports First Lady Michelle Obama's efforts to help families make informed food and drink choices.

"The new labels put calorie information at the fingertips of consumers at every point of purchase so they can choose the beverage that is right for them and their families," said Susan K. Neely, president and CEO of the American Beverage Association. "By putting the calories on the front of beverages, we're making it easier for consumers to make informed choices. It's one more way that America's beverage companies are doing their part to help people achieve a healthy weight by balancing their diet and physical activity."

America's beverage companies will be including the calorie labels on the front of every can, bottle, and pack they produce for beverages 20 fluid ounces or smaller. The labels have begun rolling out in stores across the nation, and they are expected to be on the front of all major brands by June, and on all brands by early 2012.

The calorie labeling initiative is part of the association's Clear on Calories commitment, which supports the First Lady's "Let's Move!" campaign to end childhood obesity.

"We are proud to be one of the first industries to answer the First Lady's call to action and start delivering for consumers," Neely said. "The beverage industry has a proven track record of advancing real solutions to societal challenges, and Clear on Calories furthers that leadership."

For more information about nutrition, check out the February 2011 cover story, "Uncover Nutrition," in NACS Magazine.