A New York Times article (January 25,2011, B1) describes competing proposals to label food. The Grocery Manufacturers Association announced a labeling scheme that highlights calories, fats etc but also beneficial nutrients like vitamins, protein etc.  But the Federal government claims that the labels would be confusing and wants to emphasize things consumers should avoid.  The federal Institute of Medicine, focused on decreasing obesity and heart disease, also wants to focus attention on things consumers should avoid. A retailer led initiative, led by WalMart initiative, was announced jointly with the first lady Michelle Obama and claimed that it would focus on labeling that emphasizes healthy foods.  Who should control food labels – the manufacturer, retailer or the federal government ? Should there be a single labeling system or should we let the consumer decide which one they prefer ? How does the demand stimulation impact of labels align with the  consumer protection goal of the government ?