heart-check food certification program application packet

HEART-CHECK FOOD CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
APPLICATION PACKET
The American Heart Association established the Heart-Check Food Certification Program in 1995 to give
consumers an easy, reliable way to identify heart-healthy foods. The iconic red-and-white Heart-Check mark
helps shoppers cut through the confusion on grocery store shelves to reach for foods that meet criteria based on
the sound science of the American Heart Association.
Compared to other well-known symbols, more shoppers trust the familiar Heart-Check mark. Plus, consumer
research shows they’re more likely to buy a product bearing the mark. As a program participant, you enjoy the
following benefits:
Align with a nutritional leader. The American Heart Association is one of the nation’s most recognized
brands. Consumers seek our guidance on nutrition and heart-healthy living. Certification from the
American Heart Association is especially meaningful to consumers because it signifies the independent
voice of a trusted health organization.
Boost your product’s visibility. Our prominent integrated promotions feature in-store advertising, hang
tags and messaging, broadcast and print media placements, and health and wellness events nationwide.
Our national marketing campaigns build awareness of the Heart-Check mark and drive consumers to
certified products.
Join an exceptional roster of certified products. Your company name and product receive recognition
on heartcheckmark.org and on our convenient grocery list builder available online and on mobile devices.
Make a valuable addition to your marketing mix. Many of the food industry’s top brands have certified
products for one reason: It works. A recent client satisfaction survey found 90 percent of respondents
plan to renew certification. Another 90 percent said they have a favorable opinion of the program.
Attract health-conscious consumers. Eighty-three percent of consumers are aware of the Heart-Check
mark, according to consumer research. Plus, 66 percent of primary grocery shoppers say the Heart-
Check mark has a strong/moderate influence on their choices when shopping.
Gain added credibility. Consumer research shows 73 percent of shoppers trust the American Heart
Association more than anyone else to provide guidance on heart-healthy eating and to certify food
products. The rise of new food icons has created confusion, but ultimately consumers rely on the
independent Heart-Check mark they know and trust.
Certify your product today! Together, we can help consumers make heart-smart food choices.
Questions? Contact your Account Manager or April
Whitfield at 214-706-1879 or April.Whitfield@heart.org.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
• ...........................................................................................................................................................................................ABOUT THE
PROGRAM.................................................................................................................................................................3
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Benefits of
Certification.................................................................................................................................................3
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Program Changes
and Enhancements .....................................................................................................................................5
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Account
Management Structure and Staff.................................................................................................................5
............................................................................................................................................................Meet Your Heart-
Check Food Certification Program Team.....................................................................................6
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Product Eligibility
...................................................................................................................................................................7
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Product Pre-
Screening Program .....................................................................................................................................8
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Overview of Steps
to Certification.............................................................................................................................................9
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Certification
Flowchart ..................................................................................................................................................11
• ...........................................................................................................................................................................................PROGRAM
NUTRITIONAL GUIDELINES ...................................................................................................................................12
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Nutrient Criteria and
Guidelines.................................................................................................................................................13
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Individual Food
Category List.............................................................................................................................................18
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................FDA/USDA
Definitions for Main Dish, Meal and Meal-Type Products ..........................................................................23
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................American Heart
Association Nutritional Criteria for Main Dish, Meal and Meal-Type Products............................................24
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Other Information
.................................................................................................................................................................25
............................................................................................................................................................Dry Mixes 25
............................................................................................................................................................Products with
Multiple Preparation Methods....................................................................................................25
............................................................................................................................................................Beneficial Nutrients
(“Jelly Bean Rule”) ....................................................................................................................25
............................................................................................................................................................Foods with Small
RACCs (“30-Gram RACC Rule”) ...............................................................................................25
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................When a Lab Test Is
Required ...................................................................................................................................................26
............................................................................................................................................................Pass/Fail Analysis
.................................................................................................................................................26
............................................................................................................................................................Actions for
Noncompliance .........................................................................................................................27
• ...........................................................................................................................................................................................PROGRAM FEES
.................................................................................................................................................................................28
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Payment Process
.................................................................................................................................................................28
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Fee Schedule for
Company Set-up Fee and New and Renewing Products...........................................................................29
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Calculating
Certification-Related Fees.........................................................................................................................30
............................................................................................................................................................Sample Fee
Calculations ..............................................................................................................................30
• ...........................................................................................................................................................................................NEW COMPANY
OR TRADE ASSOCIATION APPLICATION..............................................................................................................31
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

• ...........................................................................................................................................................................................NEW PRODUCT
APPLICATION..........................................................................................................................................................32
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Online Application
Process.....................................................................................................................................................32
............................................................................................................................................................Renewal Process
.................................................................................................................................................34
• ...........................................................................................................................................................................................PACKAGING AND
PROMOTIONAL GUIDELINES.................................................................................................................................35
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Graphic Standards
.................................................................................................................................................................35
............................................................................................................................................................Using the
Appropriate Mark.......................................................................................................................35
............................................................................................................................................................File Types
.................................................................................................................................................36
............................................................................................................................................................File Formats
.................................................................................................................................................36
............................................................................................................................................................Typeface 37
............................................................................................................................................................Symbol/Type
Proportional Relationship ..........................................................................................................37
............................................................................................................................................................Color 37
............................................................................................................................................................FDA/USDA
Coronary Heart Disease Health Claim Language ......................................................................38
............................................................................................................................................................Health Claim
Language by Certification Category ..........................................................................................39
............................................................................................................................................................Food Styling
.................................................................................................................................................40
............................................................................................................................................................Company Website
.................................................................................................................................................40
............................................................................................................................................................Product Package
Samples....................................................................................................................................41
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Packaging Reviews
.................................................................................................................................................................44
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Promotional
Reviews ....................................................................................................................................................44
• ...........................................................................................................................................................................................EXPANDING
YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION.................................................................46
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Industry Nutrition
Advisory Panel..........................................................................................................................................46
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Corporate
Relationships ............................................................................................................................................46
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................In-Store Themed
Events.......................................................................................................................................................47
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................Custom
Publications ..............................................................................................................................................47
o ...........................................................................................................................................................................American Heart
Association CPR & First Aid......................................................................................................................47
• ...........................................................................................................................................................................................FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS................................................................................................................................................48
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Congratulations on choosing to connect your
company and brand with consumers’ priority for
better heart health. This application packet serves
as your step-by-step guide for Heart-Check
certification for food products.
The American Heart Association has set the goal
to improve the cardiovascular health of all
Americans by 20 percent by the year 2020 through
an emphasis on healthy eating and regular
physical activity. The Heart-Check Food
Certification Program is a simple, proven way to
help families eat healthier by providing shoppers
with clear purchase guidance from a trusted
source.
Heart-Check Mark Brand Power
The Heart-Check mark outperforms other icons in
aided brand awareness and trust. Among primary
grocery shoppers, 83 percent are aware of the Heart-
Check mark and 63 percent trust the Heart-Check
mark most.
Benefits of Certification
Heart-Check certification provides added credibility
for your brand and boosts your product’s visibility
and sales. Seeing the mark on a food package
assures shoppers they are making a smart choice.
Heart-Check certification includes the following
benefits:
Rights to use the Heart-Check mark on
product packaging. See “Packaging and
Promotional Guidelines” on page 35 for
details.
Source: 2009 American Heart Association quantitative study
Rights to use the Heart-Check mark or name in advertising, public relations and promotional materials.
See “Packaging and Promotional Guidelines” on page 35 for details.
Company names and products receive recognition on the American Heart Association’s mobile and
desktop grocery list builder application, available to shoppers at heartcheckmark.org.
Products benefit from American Heart Association-sponsored in-store merchandising campaigns, which
are designed to increase consumer awareness of the Heart-Check mark.
“The Heart-Check program brings benefits to those companies invested in the health of their
consumers. Not only does it add a level of credibility and trust that other programs don’t bring, but
certification aligns food products with a leading heart-health organization.”
—Rachel Johnson, Ph.D., R.D., professor of nutrition at the University of Vermont and an American Heart Association volunteer
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Heart-Check Mark Purchase Power
More primary grocery shoppers look for and
purchase products that bear the Heart-Check mark
compared to other icons.
Certified products are eligible for
increased involvement with the American
Heart Association as sponsors of national
events or campaigns, such as Go Red
For Women and Heart Walk.
Certified products may participate in
American Heart Association in-store
integrated shopper marketing events
done in collaboration with retail grocery
chains.
Source: 2009 American Heart Association quantitative study
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Program Changes and Enhancements
In September 2011, the American Heart Association announced changes to the Heart-Check Food Certification
Program that make choosing more types of healthy foods even easier for consumers. Some changes took effect
immediately; others will go into effect Jan. 15, 2014. See below for a summary of program changes.
Heart-Check Program Changes & Compliance Requirements (announced Sept. 15, 2011)
Program Change
Standard (FDA-regulated products)
certification: Total fat criterion increased
from less than or equal to 3 grams to less
than 6.5 grams. Product must meet
American Heart Association nutritional
guidelines and qualify under Docket
#2006Q-0458: Saturated Fat, Cholesterol
and Trans Fat and Reduced Risk of
Heart Disease health claim.
Expansion to certify eligible nuts:
Almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, pecans,
pistachios, walnuts and some pine nuts.
Products must meet American Heart
Association nutritional guidelines and
qualify under Docket #02P-0505: Nuts
and Coronary Heart Disease health
claim.
Expansion to certify fish meeting
American Heart Association criteria and
qualify under Docket #2003Q-0401:
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Reduced Risk
of Coronary Heart Disease health claim.
Sodium criterion: One of four sodium
levels was assigned to particular food
categories based on the evaluation
criteria: 140 mg, 240 mg, 360 mg or 480
mg sodium.
Fiber/sugar/calorie screening
guidelines: Sugar screening guidelines
developed for food categories that tend
to have higher levels of added sugar, but
make a positive contribution to the diet in
the way of natural fruit, whole grains,
fiber, etc.
Mark/graphic standards: The revised
single version of the Heart-Check mark
replaces the multiple versions: Standard,
Whole Grain and Extra Lean.
120-Day Written
Notification
Required
Written Notification
Effective
Compliance Effective Date
Yes - Waived N/A Effective immediately
No N/A Effective immediately
No N/A Effective immediately
Yes - Issued Sept. 15,
2011
Yes - Issued Sept. 15,
2011
Yes - Issued Sept. 15,
2011
Account Management Structure and Staff
Jan. 15, 2012
Jan. 15, 2012
Jan. 15, 2012
The Heart-Check program staff provides a personalized experience for every participant.
Jan. 15, 2014 for all certified products
Jan.15, 2014 for all certified products
in the following categories: milk and
milk alternatives, yogurt, certain grainbased
products, fruit juices, vegetable
juices, canned fruits and vegetables
and frozen fruit
New mark on packages and
promotional materials by Jan. 15,
2014
New companies work with April Whitfield, Manager of Business Relations and Account Services, to learn more
about the Heart-Check Food Certification Program, navigate the company application process and submit a
product for certification. She can be reached at 214-706-1879 or April.Whitfield@heart.org.
Once your product(s) is certified, you are assigned an Account Manager. The Account Manager is your primary
contact for adding and renewing products, resolving certification-related issues, sharing program or association
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

news and questions. If you are unsure who your Account Manager is, please contact Kimberly Pruitt at 214-706-
1233 or Kimberly.Pruitt@heart.org.
Meet Your Heart-Check Food Certification Program Team
Below is a list of staff members and their contact information.
Account Manager Account Manager Account Manager
Dennis Milne
Director, Business Relations,
Dennis.Milne@heart.org
214-706-1351
Linda Rupp
Senior Manager,
Account Services
Linda.Rupp@heart.org
214-706-1198
Marta Cordell
Manager, Account Services
Marta.Cordell@heart.org
214-706-1362
Promotion Reviews Packaging Reviews New Business Development
Jacy Cochran
Marketing Manager
Reviews@heart.org
214-706-1352
Kimberly Pruitt
Project Coordinator,
Account Services
Kimberly.Pruitt@heart.org
214-706-1233
April Whitfield
Manager, Business Relations
and Account Services
April.Whitfield@heart.org
214-706-1879
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Product Eligibility
When consumers see the Heart-Check mark on food packaging, they instantly know the food has been certified to
meet the American Heart Association’s recommendations for a heart-healthy food. The Heart-Check nutrient
guidelines and criteria were developed based on American Heart
Association science recommendations published in the leading
scientific journal Circulation: Journal of the American Heart
Association. All scientific statements undergo a rigorous review
and approval process, including:
Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations Revision 2006: A
Scientific Statement from the American Heart Association
Nutrition Committee
(circ.ahajournals.org/content/114/1/82.full)
The American Heart
Association is the most
trusted authority for nutrition
messages and determining
whether a food product can
display a health symbol.
Dietary Sugars Intake and Cardiovascular Health: A Scientific Statement from the American Heart
Association (circ.ahajournals.org/content/120/11/1011.full)
Defining and Setting National Goals for Cardiovascular Health Promotion and Disease Reduction: The
American Heart Association’s Strategic Impact Goal Through 2020 and Beyond
(circ.ahajournals.org/content/121/4/586.full)
The Heart-Check program currently certifies against six health claims, which are listed below. For a product to be
eligible, it must align with the corresponding FDA/USDA requirement for making a coronary heart disease health
claim and meet additional American Heart Association certification criteria as detailed in “Program Nutritional
Guidelines” on page 12.
Standard (FDA-regulated non-meat) Individual Products
o
Docket #2006Q-0458: Saturated Fat, Cholesterol and Trans Fat and Reduced Risk of
Heart Disease health claim
Standard (meat and seafood) – “Extra Lean” Products
o
21 CFR 101.75: Dietary Saturated Fat and Cholesterol and Risk of Coronary Heart
Disease health claim
Whole Grain Products
o
FDAMA Notification Docket #03Q-0547: Whole Grain Foods with Moderate Fat
Content and the Risk of Heart Disease health claim
Nuts (whole or chopped) NEW!
o
Docket #02P-0505: Nuts and Coronary Heart Disease health claim
Fish (omega-3
fatty acids) NEW!
o
Docket #2003Q-
As of 2011, the American
0401: Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Reduced Risk of
Heart Association now
Coronary Heart Disease health claim
certifies against health claims
Main Dish and
Meal Products
for nuts and fish higher in
o 21 CFR 101.75:
omega-3 fatty acids.
Dietary Saturated Fat and Cholesterol and Risk of
Coronary Heart Disease health claim
See “Program Nutritional Guidelines” on page 12 for details.
The American Heart Association does not certify the following products:
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

• Alcoholic beverages
• Candy or confections
• Desserts, defined as:
o
all cakes (including angel food, chiffon and sponge cakes;
cheesecake; pineapple upside-down cake; fruit, nut and vegetable cakes; Boston cream pie; and
cupcakes)
o
brownies
o
candied fruit
o
coffee cakes
o
cookies
o
crumb cakes
o
custard, pudding, gelatin
o
doughnuts, Danish, sweet rolls, toaster pastries
o
éclairs and cream puffs
o
grain-based dessert bars, such as fig bars
o
ice cream, ice milk, frozen yogurt, and sherbet; frozen flavored ice
and pops; frozen fruit juice bars; gelato
o
pie filling
o
pies, cobblers, fruit crisps, turnovers and other pastries
• Dietary supplements
• Diet-branded foods
• Grain-based/cereal bars
• Liquid vegetable oils, margarines, dressings for salads, mayonnaise,
sandwich spreads, mayonnaise-type dressings and spray types
• Medical foods
• Meal replacements
• Nut-containing products
• Snacks (except unsweetened popcorn)
• Stanol or sterol-containing products
• Effective January 2014, foods containing partially hydrogenated oil
(trans fat) will not be eligible
Other restrictions and limitations on product eligibility include:
• Beverage certification is limited to milk*, dairy alternatives (such as soy milk, rice milk and nut and seed
milk), drinkable yogurts, fruit juices and vegetable juices. *Milk must meet the regulatory standard of
identity for “milk” as specified in 21 CFR 131.110.
• The Heart-Check mark may be used only on products distributed in the United States, its territories and
possessions.
• Products will not be certified if the end result per preparation instructions on the package does
not meet our criteria, if products do not align with American Heart Association science, are
inconsistent with American Heart Association diet and lifestyle recommendations or if the product
name conveys an unhealthy message that could adversely affect the credibility of the program.
• Any food product produced by a tobacco company or its subsidiaries may not be certified. It is
American Heart Association policy to prohibit formal corporate relationships with tobacco
companies or their corporate subsidiaries or parents. A “subsidiary” or “parent” is an entity in
which there exists a 5 percent or greater ownership by a tobacco company.
Product Pre-Screening Program
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

A pre-screening program is available to determine whether your product is nutritionally eligible to participate in the
Heart-Check program before you formally apply for certification. This option is available to both active companies
and new companies contemplating certification of their product(s).
Active companies can request a Product Pre-Screening form from their Account Manager. New companies
considering certification can request the form from April Whitfield at 214-706-1879 or April.Whitfield@heart.org.
You can also download the form at heartcheckmark.org/certify.
If you wish to complete this process, please submit the following to your Account Manager or April Whitfield:
• Completed Product Pre-Screening form
• PDF of product packaging with Nutrition Facts panel
Separately, please remit a non-refundable $250 fee (payable to AHA Heart-Check Food Certification Program)
per product to:
Standard Mail
Overnight Mail
American Heart Association
American Heart Association
ATTN: Heart-Check Program
ATTN: Heart-Check Program
c/o Bank of America Lockbox Services
c/o Bank of America Lockbox Services
Lockbox 844504 1950 N. Stemmons Fwy., Ste. 5010
Dallas, TX 75284-4504 Lockbox 844504
Dallas, TX 75284-4504
Note: Only the Product Pre-Screening form and product packaging PDF should be sent to your Account Manager
or April Whitfield. Do not send the fee. The fee must be submitted separately to the address above.
After we receive your materials and fee, you will be notified within 10 to 14 business days regarding your
product’s nutritional eligibility. If your product qualifies nutritionally and you complete the formal application
process within 90 days of notification, the screening fee will be applied toward the product certification fee.
Please note eligibility to participate in the Heart-Check program is based on compliance with all program terms
and conditions as outlined herein and the Certification Mark License Agreement (CMLA) or Certification Mark
Promotion License Agreement (CMPLA). Nutritional qualification does not guarantee company/product eligibility.
Overview of Steps to Certification
STEP 1: New Company or Trade Association Application
After you review the nutritional criteria (see “Program Nutritional Guidelines” on page 12) and anticipate your
product’s nutritional profile meets certification criteria, you can download the New Company or Trade Association
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Application at heartcheckmark.org/certify or request the
application from April Whitfield at 214-706-1819 or
April.Whitfield@heart.org.
The completed New Company or Trade Association
Application and set-up fee must be received and the CMLA or
CMPLA fully executed before products can apply for
certification. For detailed instructions, see “New Company or
Trade Association Application” on page 31.
Certifying your product is
simple. Once your company is
approved, go to
certification.heartcheckmark.org
to complete the online
application process.
If you are unsure whether your product qualifies nutritionally
for Heart-Check certification, you can participate in the
Product Pre-Screening Program before you formally apply for certification. This optional program is available to
active companies or new companies contemplating certification of their product(s). For more information, see
“Product Pre-Screening Program” on page 8.
STEP 2: New Product Application
After the company application process is complete, you will receive login credentials (username and password)
for the Heart-Check product application and renewal portal. Log on to certification.heartcheckmark.org to
complete product-related information and submit certification fees. For detailed instructions, see “New Product
Application” on page 32.
Product certification fees are calculated online as part of the product application process. Fees cover nutrition
reviews, packaging reviews, promotion reviews, scientific and legal reviews, lab testing (if appropriate), marketing
of the Heart-Check program to professional and consumer audiences and other program-related expenses. Fees
are non-refundable. For the detailed fee schedule, see “Program Fees” on page 28.
STEP 3: Product Review
Once your completed product application is submitted online, your product will be reviewed by the Heart-Check
program staff. The product review process takes up to four weeks after receipt of all required information and
fees. If lab testing is required, additional review time may be needed.
STEP 4: Product Status Notification
If your product is approved for certification, you will receive email notification. If your product is not approved,
Heart-Check program staff will contact you directly to discuss why your product did not meet certification criteria.
STEP 5: Finalize Certification
A product is not considered legally certified unless/until the Product Schedule is fully executed. The Product
Schedule is an addendum
to the CMLA or CMPLA and
enumerates i) the
product(s) being certified, ii) the
term of certification, and iii)
additional requirements/restrictions,
if needed.
Once all documents are
certified for one year (12
“I did purchase cereal because of
the Heart-Check mark on the box.”
—Consumer surveyed by the Sunflower Group
complete, your product is then
consecutive months).
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Questions? Contact your Account Manager or April
Whitfield at 214-706-1879 or April.Whitfield@heart.org.
© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Certification Flowchart
I have a product I’d like to certify.
YES
Submit new company
application and pay
set-up fee
Does the product
qualify nutritionally?
NO
Reformulate
product
I DON’T
KNOW
Participate in the product
pre-screening program or
consult nutritional guidelines
at heartcheckmark.org
CMLA or CMPLA
signed?
NO
Agreement must be signed
before you can submit a
product for certification
YES
Complete online product
application process and pay
certification fee
Did product hit
a lab trigger?
YES
Lab testing is required to verify
compliance of product with
certification criteria
NO
Notification of product
certification status
NOT
APPROVED
FAIL
Reformulate product
and reapply
PASS
APPROVED
Sign Product Schedule
addendum to CMLA or CMPLA
12
Await final packaging
approval and submit
promotional materials for
approval
Use the Heart-Check mark
on product packaging and
in advertising, marketing
and promotions
Renew annually
© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

PROGRAM NUTRITIONAL GUIDELINES
The reputation of the American Heart Association – and its value to consumers – is based on our dedication to
preserving the integrity of the Heart-Check program. All certified products must meet our specified nutrient criteria
and program policies.
Nutrient values for Heart-Check certification must be at or below the upper limit for each nutrient criterion. Lab
testing may be required if nutrition values approach the maximum (see “When a Lab Test Is Required” on page
26).
Use of a heart image on the label or in labeling constitutes an implied coronary heart disease health claim. To
qualify to use the Heart-Check mark, products must meet government regulatory requirements for making
coronary heart disease health claims.
For information about compliance with health claim regulations, visit the FDA’s website at
www.fda.gov/Food/LabelingNutrition/LabelClaims/ucm111447.htm or contact the FDA at 240-402-1774.
You can also submit questions concerning health claim regulations to the USDA at
askfsis.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/802/session/L3RpbWUvMT
MyMjY4MzA5NS9zaWQvWXNQU2JyS2s%3D or by
emailing labeling@custhelp.com.
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Nutrient Criteria and
Guidelines
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Individual Food Category List
It is your responsibility to provide the American Heart Association with the specific FDA or USDA RACC category
for each product being submitted for certification. Please refer to the Individual Food Category List below to
identify the corresponding Heart-Check category code name.
HEART-CHECK FOOD CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
INDIVIDUAL FOOD CATEGORY LIST
Sort = Alphabetically by Heart-Check Category Code
Food Category
Heart-Check (H-C)
Category Code
FDA/USDA Product Category
(see also 21CFR101.12 and
9CFR317.312)
RACC
Amount
Unit of
Measure
Current
H-C
Sodium
Limit*
(in mg)
2014
H-C
Sodium
Limit*
(in mg)
Per SS
Meat & Meat
Substitutes
Bac_sub Bacon substitute 15 Grams 480 140
Legumes Beans_dry Beans, dry 35 Grams 480 140
Legumes Beans_plain_prep Beans, plain (prepared) 90 Grams 480 140
Legumes
Beans_sauce_prep
Beans, in sauce, canned in liquid,
refried (prepared)
130 Grams 480 360
Plant-based
Beverages
Beverage
Beverages, carbonated or noncarbonated
8 Ounces 480 240
Grain Products
Biscuit
Biscuits, croissants, bagels, tortillas,
soft bread sticks, cornbread
55 Grams 480 240
Grain Products Bran Bran or wheat germ 15 Grams 480 140
Grain Products
Bread
Breads, rolls (excluding sweet quicktype)
50 Grams 480 240
Grain Products
Cer 43 g
per cup (biscuit types)
55 Grams 480 240
Grain Products Cercook_dry Breakfast cereal; cooked, plain, dry 40 Grams 480 240
Grain Products
Cercook_dry_flav
Breakfast cereal; cooked, dry,
flavored or sweetened
55 Grams 480 240
Grain Products
Cercook_prep
Breakfast cereal; cooked, prepared
(e.g. oatmeal, grits)
1 Cups 480 240
Dairy Products
Cheese
Cheeses not listed as separate
subcategories
30 Grams 480 240
Dairy Products Chs_cott Cottage cheese 110 Grams 480 240
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Dairy Products
Chs_hard
Cheese, grated, hard (e.g.
parmesan, romano)
5 Grams 480 240
Food Category
Heart-Check (H-C)
Category Code
FDA/USDA Product Category
(see also 21CFR101.12 and
9CFR317.312)
RACC
Amount
Unit of
Measure
Current
H-C
Sodium
Limit*
(in mg)
2014
H-C
Sodium
Limit*
(in mg)
Per SS
Dairy Products
Chs_ingr
Cheese used primarily as ingredient
(e.g. farmers, ricotta, dry cottage)
55 Grams 480 240
Grain Products
Cracker_non
Cracker, not used as snacks (e.g.
melba toast, hard breadsticks)
15 Grams 480 240
Grain Products Cracker_snak Crackers used as snacks 30 Grams 480 240
Eggs & Egg
Substitutes
Egg_mix
Egg mixtures (egg foo young,
scrambled eggs, omelet)
110 Grams 480 240
Eggs & Egg
Substitutes
Egg_sub Egg substitutes 50 Grams 480 240
Fish & Game Meat
Fish_1
Fish, shellfish, game meat; fresh or
frozen
110 Grams 480 360
Fish & Game Meat
Fish_1_ck
Entrees without sauce, fish/game,
cooked (e.g. fried fish, patties)
85 Grams 480 480
Fish & Game Meat
Fish & Game Meat
Fish & Game Meat
Fish_entr_s_ck
Fish_1_mf
Fish_1_mf_ck
Entrees with sauce, fish/game,
cooked (e.g. fish with cream sauce)
Entrees without sauce, fish/game,
uncooked (e.g. meat-free/veggie/soy
protein-burger patties)
Entrees without sauce, fish/game,
cooked (e.g. meat-free/veggie/soy
protein-burger patties)
140 Grams 480 480
110 Grams 480 360
85 Grams 480 360
Fish & Game Meat Fish_can Fish/game, canned 55 Grams 480 360
Fish & Game Meat
Fish & Game Meat
Fish & Game Meat
Fish_proc
Fish_proc_mf
Fish_smoked
Fish-based luncheon meat, meat
spreads, Canadian bacon, sausages
and frankfurters
Substitute luncheon meat, meat
spreads, Canadian bacon,
sausages, frankfurters, crumbled
meat substitute and taco fillings
Fish/game, smoked or pickled,
spread
55 Grams 480 360
55 Grams 480 360
55 Grams 480 360
Fruits
Fru_dried
Fruit, dried (e.g. dates, figs, prunes,
raisins)
40 Grams 480 140
Fruits
Fru_ingr
Fruits, as ingredients (e.g.
cranberries, lemon, limes)
55 Grams 480 140
Fruit Juice Fru_juice Fruit juices, nectars, drinks 8 Ounces 480 140
Fruits
Fru_juice/ingr
Fruit juices, as ingredients (e.g.
lemon juice/lime juice)
5 Grams 480 140
Fruits Fru_relish Relishes (e.g. cranberry sauce) 70 Grams 480 140
Fruits Fru_wmelon Watermelon 280 Grams 480 140
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Fruits
Fruit_other
Fruits, fresh/frozen, canned, not
listed separately
140 Grams 480 140
Food Category
Heart-Check (H-C)
Category Code
FDA/USDA Product Category
(see also 21CFR101.12 and
9CFR317.312)
RACC
Amount
Unit of
Measure
Current
H-C
Sodium
Limit*
(in mg)
2014
H-C
Sodium
Limit*
(in mg)
Per SS
Grain Products Grain/rice_plain_dry Grains, plain (e.g. rice, barley) 45 Grams 480 140
Grain Products
Grain/rice_plain_prep
Grains, plain prepared (e.g. rice,
barley)
140 Grams 480 140
Meat & Poultry
Meat & Poultry
Meat & Poultry
Meat_1
Meat_1_ck
Meat_entr_S_ck
Meat, whole or ground; poultry, beef,
lamb, pork, veal
Entrees without sauce (e.g. ready-toserve
marinated/injected cuts of
meat, beef patty, corndog, cured
ham, corned beef, meatballs)
Entrees with sauce (e.g. barbecue in
sauce, turkey and gravy)
114 Grams 480 360
85 Grams 480 360
140 Grams 480 360
Meat & Poultry
Meat_canned
Canned meat (e.g. beef, pork,
chicken)
55 Grams 480 360
Meat & Poultry
Meat & Poultry
Meat & Poultry
Meat & Poultry
Meat & Poultry
Meat_jerky
Meat_Jerky_MF
Meat_proc
Meat_saus
Meat_saus_ck
Jerky, dried beef, pepperoni, other
low-moisture sausage
Meat-free/soy protein-based jerky,
dried beef, pepperoni, other lowmoisture
sausage
Processed meats (e.g. luncheon
meat, potted meat, spreads)
Linked meat sausage (e.g. ready-tocook
franks, pork sausage, summer
sausage, kielbasa, Polish sausage,
smoked sausage)
Linked meat sausage (e.g. ready-toserve
Vienna sausage, franks, pork
sausage, summer sausage,
kielbasa, Polish sausage, smoked
sausage)
30 Grams 480 360
30 Grams 480 360
55 Grams 480 480
75 Grams 480 360
55 Grams 480 360
Dairy Products Milk Milk, milk-based drinks 8 Ounces 480 240
Dairy Products
Milk_cond
Milk, condensed or evaporated,
undiluted
30 Grams 480 140
Mixed Dishes
Mix_fish/gam1
Mixed dishes, fish/game, no sauce,
not cup
140 Grams 480 360
Mixed Dishes
Mix_fish/gam1s
Mixed dishes, fish/game, with sauce,
not cup
195 Grams 480 360
Mixed Dishes Mix_fish/gam2 Mixed dishes, fish/game, cup 1 Cups 480 360
Mixed Dishes
Mix_mt1
Mixed dishes, meat/poultry, no
sauce, not measured by cup (e.g.
pizza, burritos, all type sandwiches)
140 Grams 480 360
Mixed Dishes
Mix_mt1s
Mixed dishes, meat/poultry, with
sauce, not measured by cup
195 Grams 480 360
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Mixed Dishes
Mix_mt2
Mixed dishes, meat/poultry, cup (e.g.
pot pies, stew)
1 Cups 480 360
Food Category
Heart-Check (H-C)
Category Code
FDA/USDA Product Category
(see also 21CFR101.12 and
9CFR317.312)
RACC
Amount
Unit of
Measure
Current
H-C
Sodium
Limit*
(in mg)
2014
H-C
Sodium
Limit*
(in mg)
Per SS
Mixed Dishes
Mix_nonmt1
Mixed dishes, non-meat, without
sauce, not measured by cup (e.g.
pizza)
140 Grams 480 360
Mixed Dishes
Mix_nonmt1s
Mixed dishes, non-meat, with sauce,
not measured by cup
195 Grams 480 360
Mixed Dishes
Mix_nonmt2
Mixed dishes, non-meat, by cup (e.g.
macaroni and cheese, spaghetti)
1 Cups 480 360
Nuts & Seeds Nut/seed Nuts and seeds 30 Grams 140 140
Grain Products
Pancakes_mix
Pancakes, French toast, variety
mixes-dry mix
40 Grams 480 240
Grain Products
Pancakes_prep
Pancakes, French toast, variety
mixes-prepared
110 Grams 480 240
Grain Products Pasta_dry Pasta, plain, dry 55 Grams 480 140
Grain Products Pasta_prep Pasta, plain, prepared 140 Grams 480 140
Grain Products
Pasta_ready
Pasta, dry, ready-to-eat (e.g. fried
noodles)
25 Grams 480 140
Grain Products Pizcrust Pizza crust 55 Grams 480 140
Potatoes Pot_fresh/frozen Potatoes, fresh/frozen/plain 110 Grams 480 140
Potatoes
Pot_fries1
Potatoes, prepared (e.g. fries, hash
browns, skins)
70 Grams 480 140
Potatoes
Pot_fries2
Potatoes, frozen unprepared (e.g.
fries, hash browns, skins, pancakes)
85 Grams 480 140
Potatoes Pot_can/liquid Potatoes, canned in liquid 160 Grams 480 140
Potatoes
Pot_stuff/mashed
Potatoes/sweet potatoes; stuffed,
mashed, candied or with sauce
140 Grams 480 140
Potatoes Pot_vac Potatoes, vacuum-packed 125 Grams 480 140
Salad
Salad_misc
Salad, egg, bean, fruit, fish,
vegetable
100 Grams 480 240
Salad Salad_mt/fish Salad, meat, poultry, fish 100 Grams 480 240
Salad Salad_pasta/pot Salad, pasta, potato 140 Grams 480 240
Sauce
Sauce_condmj
Major condiments (e.g. ketchup,
steak, soy, teriyaki, vinegar,
marinades)
15 Grams 480 140
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Sauce
Sauce_condmn
Minor condiments (e.g. horseradish,
hot sauces, mustard, worcestershire)
5 Grams 480 140
Food Category
Heart-Check (H-C)
Category Code
FDA/USDA Product Category
(see also 21CFR101.12 and
9CFR317.312)
RACC
Amount
Unit of
Measure
Current
H-C
Sodium
Limit*
(in mg)
2014
H-C
Sodium
Limit*
(in mg)
Per SS
Sauce
Sauce_dip
Sauce (e.g. barbecue, tartar, all dips
including salsa, hollandaise,
sweet/sour, mustard sauce)
30 Grams 480 140
Sauce
Sauce
Sauce_major
Sauce_minor
Sauce, major main entree (e.g.
spaghetti, pasta)
Sauce, minor main entree (e.g.
pizza, pesto, gravy, cheese, cocktail,
white)
125 Grams 480 360
0.25 Cups 480 140
Snacks Snacks Popcorn** 30 Grams 480 240
Soup
Soup_mt
Soups, meat/poultry (USDA
regulated)
245 Grams 480 480
Soup Soup_non Soups, non-meat 245 Grams 480 480
Grain Products
Sweetbrd
Sweetened breads, quick-type (e.g.
muffins)
55 Grams 480 240
Grain Products Taco Taco shells, hard 30 Grams 480 140
Meat Substitutes Tofu Tofu, tempeh 85 Grams 480 140
Vegetables Veg_fresh/frozen Vegetables, plain, fresh/frozen 85 Grams 480 140
Vegetable Juice Veg_juice Vegetable juice 8 Ounces 480 360
Vegetables
Veg_canned/liquid***
Vegetables, canned in liquid (e.g.
cream style corn, pumpkin, winter
squash)
130 Grams 480 240
Vegetables
Veg_canned/liquid***
Vegetables, canned in liquid
(tomato-based)
130 Grams 480 360
Vegetables Veg_paste Vegetable paste (e.g. tomato paste) 30 Grams 480 240
Vegetables Veg_sauce Vegetable, sauce or puree 60 Grams 480 240
Vegetables Veg_vac Vegetables, vacuum-packed 95 Grams 480 240
Vegetables
Veg_wsauce_fresh/frozen
Vegetables, with sauce or mixtures,
fresh/canned/frozen
110 Grams 480 240
Grain Products Waffles Waffles 85 Grams 480 240
Dairy Products Yogurt Yogurt 225 Grams 480 240
* SODIUM LIMIT IS PER LABELED SERVING EXCEPT AT 480 MG = PER LABELED SERVING AND PER RACC
** UNSWEETENED POPCORN IS THE ONLY CERTIFIABLE SNACK
*** CANNED TOMATO PRODUCTS AT 360 MG; ALL OTHER CANNED VEGETABLES AT 240 MG
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

HEART-CHECK FOOD CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
MAIN DISH AND MEAL PRODUCTS FOOD CATEGORY LIST
Sort = Alphabetically by Heart-Check Category Code
(Main Dish and Meal Products do not have RACC amounts.)
Food Category
Heart-Check (H-C)
Category Code
FDA/USDA Product Category
Current
H-C Sodium
Limit
(in mg)
Per SS
2014
H-C Sodium
Limit
(in mg)
Per SS
Main Dish Md_gam Main dish, fish/game Total Fat,
Saturated Fat and
600 600
Main Dish Md_mt Main dish, meat/poultry
Cholesterol are
per 100 g; Trans 600 600
Main Dish Md_non Main dish, non-meat
Fat and Sodium
are per labeled
serving size only 600 600
Meals Dinner_gam Dinners, fish/game Total Fat,
Saturated Fat and
600 600
Meals Dinner_mt Dinners, meat/poultry
Cholesterol are
per 100 g; Trans 600 600
Meals Dinner_non Dinners, non-meat
Fat and Sodium
are per labeled
serving size only 600 600
FDA/USDA Definitions for Main Dish, Meal and Meal-Type Products
Below are the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) citations defining main dish, meal and meal-type products.
If you are unsure how your product is classified, please contact the FDA at 240-402-1774 or visit
www.fda.gov/Food/LabelingNutrition/LabelClaims/ucm111447.htm, or contact the USDA at
askfsis.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/802/session/L3RpbWUvMTMyMjY4MzA5NS9zaWQvWXNQU2JyS
2s%3D or labeling@custhelp.com.
Description
Main dish (meatless): 6 or more ounces per labeled serving (FDA)
Main dish w/game meats or seafood: 6 or more ounces per labeled serving (FDA)
Main dish with meat or poultry: 6 or more ounces per labeled serving (USDA)
CFR Citation
[21 CFR 101.13(m)]
[21 CFR 101.13(m)]
[9 CFR 317.313(l)]
[9 CFR 381.413(m)]
Meal (meatless): 10 ounces or more per labeled serving (FDA)
Meal products with game meats or seafood: 10 ounces or more per labeled serving
(FDA)
Meal-type product with meat or poultry: 10 ounces or more per labeled serving (USDA)
[21 CFR 101.13(l)]
[21 CFR 101.13(l)]
[9 CFR 317.313(m)]
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

[9 CFR 381.413(l)]
American Heart Association Nutritional Criteria for Main Dish, Meal and Meal-Type Products
Main Dish Products
(6 ounces or more per labeled serving)
Total Fat • 3 g or less total fat per 100 g
• Not more than 30 percent of calories from fat
• 19.5 g or less of total fat per labeled serving
Saturated Fat • 1 g or less saturated fat per 100 g
• Less than 10 percent of calories from
saturated fat
• 6 g or less of saturated fat per labeled
serving
Meal or Meal-Type Products
(10 ounces or more per labeled serving)
• 3 g or less total fat per 100 g
• Not more than 30 percent of calories from fat
• 26 g or less of total fat per labeled serving
• 1 g or less saturated fat per 100 g
• Less than 10 percent of calories from saturated
fat
• 8 g or less of saturated fat per labeled serving
Trans Fat • Less than 0.5 g trans fat per labeled serving • Less than 0.5 g trans fat per labeled serving
Cholesterol • 20 mg or less cholesterol per 100 g
• 90 mg or less per labeled serving
• 20 mg or less cholesterol per 100 g
• 120 mg or less per labeled serving
Sodium • 600 mg or less sodium per labeled serving • 600 mg or less sodium per labeled serving
Beneficial Nutrients
(naturally occurring
or historically
fortified)
• 10 percent or more of the Daily Value of 1 of
6 nutrients: vitamin A, vitamin C, iron,
calcium, protein or dietary fiber per the entire
main dish
• 10 percent or more of the Daily Value of 1 of 6
nutrients: vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, calcium,
protein or dietary fiber per the entire meal
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Other Information
Dry Mixes
A dry mix product that requires preparation before consuming will be evaluated both in its original dry form and at
least one prepared form in order to qualify it for certification.
Products with Multiple Preparation Methods
If a food product has multiple preparation methods printed on the packaging, at least one preparation method
must meet the Heart-Check program criteria in order for the product to be certified.
In order to minimize consumer confusion, a disclaimer may be required next to the preparation method(s) that
does not qualify. Example: “American Heart Association certification does not apply if fried.”
Beneficial Nutrients (“Jelly Bean Rule”)
Health claim regulations require that products making coronary heart disease health claims must contain at least
10 percent of the Daily Reference Value or Reference Daily Intake for at least one of six specified nutrients per
Reference Amount Customarily Consumed (RACC) or per the entire main dish or meal. These nutrients are
vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, calcium, protein and dietary fiber.
The nutrients must be naturally occurring, not fortified. Exceptions are made for products classified as “historically
fortified” by the FDA. For information on “historical fortification,” contact the FDA at 240-402-1774.
Foods with Small RACCs (“30-Gram RACC Rule”)
FDA regulations state that for single foods with a Reference Amount Customarily Consumed (RACC) of 30 grams
or less – or 2 tablespoons or less – to make a health claim, the levels of total fat, cholesterol and sodium must be
calculated at 50 grams to ensure all products can be evaluated comparably. The rule also applies to trans fat.
The American Heart Association applies the 30-gram RACC rule across all certification categories except the
Nuts category.
For example, if a standard, non-meat product has a RACC of 25 grams and contains 3.5 grams of total fat per 25
grams, it would be evaluated at 50 grams. The total fat would equal 7 grams per 50 grams, thereby disqualifying it
from certification because standard non-meat products must contain less than 6.5 grams of total fat per RACC.
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

When a Lab Test Is Required
Lab testing is needed when a product’s nutrient values approach the maximum certification criteria. This is
identified as a “lab trigger” in the nutrient criteria charts beginning on page 13. Lab analyses of three individual
product samples (not a composite sample) will be required to validate compliance.
Lab tests are not required when renewing products hit the same trigger as the previous year. You may use the
previous year’s data if the nutrient value on the Nutrition Facts panel stays the same or decreases. This lab test
exemption applies for one year only. New lab analyses will be required for subsequent certification renewals.
If your product hits a lab trigger, there are two options for testing:
1. Applicant lab testing
Lab test results from the applying company are accepted under
the following conditions:
29
• Results are not more than six months old (from your
application or renewal date).
• Testing was conducted by a facility that follows
established Good Laboratory Practices (for non-clinical laboratory studies as outlined in FDA’s
21CFR58).
• The facility uses the most current Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) official methods,
where available (a Laboratory Worksheet may be required to validate your lab’s accreditation).
2. American Heart Association lab testing
New and renewing products will be authorized for lab analyses after all fees and materials are received and
nutritional values are reviewed. Applicants are not required to pay an additional fee for lab testing. However, you
will be responsible for costs associated with pulling product samples and shipping to the lab.
You will receive an email notification that includes a pre-populated lab Analysis Request Form (ARF) and shipping
instructions. Instructions include:
• Enclose one completed copy of the ARF with three individual product samples (per product being
tested).
• Email a completed copy of the ARF to the Heart-Check program staff.
• Ship samples from different lot numbers, as packaged for distribution/resale, to our lab (name and
address are provided on the ARF form). You will be required to pay shipping costs.
Please do not send product samples to the American Heart Association National Center on Greenville
Avenue.
The American Heart Association receives the lab report directly. A copy will be made available to you upon
request.
If for any reason your product appears to be noncompliant or is selected for periodic random testing, it is subject
to the same testing procedures as a product that approaches a lab trigger. American Heart Association lab results
take precedence if results differ from company-provided lab results.
Pass/Fail Analysis
Lab testing is required if your
product’s nutrient values
approach the maximum
certification criteria.
Product(s) are considered compliant with certification criteria if the mean (average) value of the three individual
samples is at or below the stated certification criteria. If your product passes the lab analysis, the certification
© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

process will move forward. If your product fails, you may reformulate your product and reapply for certification at a
later date.
Standard deviation/test variability will not be applied to these results. The American Heart Association nutrition
criteria are absolute values. The FDA/USDA labeling allowance of +/- 20 percent does not apply.
Actions for Noncompliance
For certified products found to be noncompliant with certification criteria, you may reformulate your product to
address the noncompliant nutrient value(s). You will have 30 days to demonstrate to the American Heart
Association that you are actively working to resolve the issue.
If you do not take steps to resolve the issue within 30 days, the American Heart Association may terminate your
agreement and Product Schedule. Consult the CMLA or CMPLA for details.
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

PROGRAM FEES
The American Heart Association’s Heart-Check Food Certification Program employs a per-product fee-based
assessment. A product is defined as a specific food with a product name, flavor, Nutrition Facts label, and/or
ingredient list combination that represents product differentiation or uniqueness.
Pricing is either tier-based or volume discount-based, with reduced fees allowed when the product differs only
by brand or form variation (see “Sample Fee Calculations” on page 30).
Additional product serving and packaging sizes do not warrant additional fees but all must be submitted for review
and meet the Heart-Check program nutritional criteria.
A variety pack presents a unique circumstance based on certifiability and/or certification of the individual products
within the variety pack and whether they are sold separately. Additionally, variety packs are typically marketed
and promoted as separate or unique “products,” which necessitates additional review and approvals beyond
typical serving and packaging size variations. Therefore, the reduced fee schedule that applies to brand and
form variation also applies to variety pack pricing. All products within the variety pack that apply for certification
(whether sold separately or not) must be reviewed and meet program nutritional criteria, and are subject to tierbased
or volume pricing accordingly. A clear visual and/or written distinction must be made around products that
either do not apply for or do not meet certification nutritional criteria so as not to confuse the consumer. Products
that meet the requirements for reduced fees as described above will be subject to a $1,000 per product program
fee.
Payment Process
A new company will be required to pay a non-refundable set-up fee as part of the New Company or Trade
Association Application before products can apply for certification. The set-up fee may be paid by electronic funds
transfer or paper check (payable to AHA Heart-Check Food Certification Program). If paying by check, please
mail to the address below. To pay electronically, please contact Kimberly Pruitt at 214-706-1233 or
Kimberly.Pruitt@heart.org.
Once your company is approved, product certification fees are calculated online during the product application
process. Product fees may be paid using one of the following payment methods:
• Credit card
• Electronic funds transfer
• Paper check (payable to AHA Heart-Check Food Certification
Program)
If paying by paper check, please remit to:
Standard Mail
Overnight Mail
31
American Heart Association
American Heart Association
ATTN: Heart-Check Program
ATTN: Heart-Check Program
c/o Bank of America Lockbox Services
c/o Bank of America Lockbox Services
Lockbox 844504 1950 N. Stemmons Fwy., Ste. 5010
Dallas, TX 75284-4504 Lockbox 844504
Dallas, TX 75284-4504
© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Fee Schedule for Company Set-up Fee and New and Renewing Products
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Calculating Certification-Related Fees
Product certification fees are calculated online during the application process. You can also use the fee schedule
chart on the previous page to calculate your fee prior to applying online.
A reduced fee structure is allowed when products’ Nutrition Facts panels and ingredient lists are identical and the
products differ only by the label or form. For example, a large grocery retailer parent company may carry the
same product under its different store names or banners. Since the product’s nutritional profile is identical, a
discount is allowed. See below for specific examples.
Sample Fee Calculations
Brand Variation
A retailer new to the Heart-Check program wants to certify its private-label low-fat vanilla yogurt under three
different store brand names.
The retailer would pay a set-up fee of $1,500 plus $5,000 for the first product and $1,000 each for the two
additional products. The total fee would be: $1,500 + $5,000 + $2,000 = $8,500
Form Variation
A CPG company has four different certified canned fruit products and now wants to add its canned pineapple
product in chunks, tidbits and crushed.
The set-up fee is waived because they are a currently certified company. Since this is the fifth different product to
be certified, the company now qualifies for Tier Two pricing. It pays $4,050 for the first form (pineapple chunks)
and $1,000 each for the form variation products (pineapple tidbits and crushed pineapple). The total fee would be:
$4,050 + $2,000 = $6,050
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

NEW COMPANY OR TRADE ASSOCIATION APPLICATION
Download the New Company or Trade Association Application at heartcheckmark.org/certify or request the
application from April Whitfield at 214-706-1819 or April.Whitfield@heart.org. Then follow these steps:
1. Submit the completed New Company or Trade Association
Application to April Whitfield at April.Whitfield@heart.org. Application accepted by email only.
2. Pay the set-up fee by electronic funds transfer or paper check
(payable to AHA Heart-Check Food Certification Program). To pay electronically, please contact
Kimberly Pruitt at 214-706-1233 or Kimberly.Pruitt@heart.org. If paying by check, please remit to:
Standard Mail
Overnight Mail
American Heart Association
American Heart Association
ATTN: Heart-Check Program
ATTN: Heart-Check Program
c/o Bank of America Lockbox Services
c/o Bank of America Lockbox Services
Lockbox 844504 1950 N. Stemmons Fwy., Ste. 5010
Dallas, TX 75284-4504 Lockbox 844504
Dallas, TX 75284-4504
Please do not send any application documents with your check.
3. Sign and email the CMLA or CMPLA to April Whitfield at
April.Whitfield@heart.org, or mail two hard copies to:
American Heart Association
ATTN: April Whitfield
7272 Greenville Ave.
Dallas, TX 75231
Please do not send hard copies with your check. Hard copies of the CMLA or CMPLA must be
sent directly to April Whitfield.
The completed New Company or Trade Association Application and set-up fee must be received and the CMLA
or CMPLA fully executed before products can apply for certification.
Once the company set-up process is complete and your CMLA or CMPLA has been executed, you will receive
login credentials to begin the online product application process.
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

NEW PRODUCT APPLICATION
Online Application Process
Submitting your product for certification is simple using the
Heart-Check product application and renewal portal. The
online application process makes it easy to provide product
details, pay the certification fee and update or renew a
product’s certification.
Log on to
certification.heartcheckmark.org and
enter the username and password you
received by email. Then follow these
steps:
1. O
n the Product(s) in
Progress page, click
the “Add a Product”
tab. You will be asked to
enter the following product
information:
• U
PC code (if your product has
one)
• Produc
t name
• Packag
e size
• Serving size
• U
nit of
measure
• T
ype of
product
(branded
product,
brand/form
variation or
variety pack; trade associations/members also have the option to choose commodity or
branded commodity)
36
2. Once your product is entered into the system for review, you can
either add another product or proceed to checkout.
© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

3. At checkout, you provide payment of certification fees. Certification
fees may be paid using one of the following payment methods:
• Credit card
• Electronic
funds transfer
• Paper
check (payable to AHA Heart-Check
Food Certification Program)
If paying by paper check, please remit to:
Standard Mail
Overnight Mail
American Heart Association
American Heart
Association
ATTN: Heart-Check Program
ATTN:
Heart-Check Program
c/o Bank of America Lockbox Services c/o
Bank of America Lockbox Services
Lockbox 844504 1950
N. Stemmons Fwy., Ste. 5010
Dallas, TX 75284-4504
Lockbox 844504
Dallas, TX 75284-4504
4. Once
payment is complete, your product will
appear on the Product(s) in Progress
page. Click the product to begin the
certification process. You will need to
complete each section of the
product application process in one
session. Please have required
information ready before you begin
each section (Product Info, Nutritional,
Packaging and Completed). Your
work in each section will not be saved
if you close the browser.
5. You will be asked to
enter the following product information:
• Product type
• Certification requested
• List of non-GRAS
(generally recognized as safe) ingredients
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• FDA/USDA product subcategory code (see “Individual Food
Category List” on page 18)
• Grocery store primary location
• Whether the product is a supplement, meal replacement or weight
loss product (these types of products are not certifiable)
6. Fill out the nutritional form, which is formatted as a standard
Nutrition Facts panel. Additional information may be required based on certification you have
requested.
7. Upload one or more
PDFs of your packaging mockups that display the
Nutrition Facts panel and appropriate placement of
the Heart-Check mark and FDA health claim
language. (See “Packaging and Promotional
Guidelines” on page 35 for details.)
After you fully complete the product application process, the
product will no longer appear in your Product(s) in Progress page.
The review process requires four weeks, although additional time
may be needed if your product must undergo lab testing. You will
be notified if lab testing is required.
If your product is approved for certification, you will receive email
notification. You will also be assigned an Account Manager. If your
product fails to pass certification, Heart-Check program staff will contact you to discuss why your product did not
comply with certification criteria and what the next steps are.
A product is not considered legally certified unless/until the Product Schedule is fully executed (signed by both
parties). The Product Schedule is an addendum to the CMLA or CMPLA and enumerates i) the product(s) being
certified, ii) the term of certification, and iii) additional requirements/restrictions, if needed.
After the Product Schedule is fully executed and you receive final packaging approval from Heart-Check program
staff, you can actively use the Heart-Check mark for one year (12 consecutive months). We also encourage you
to use the mark in your promotional materials. See “Packaging and Promotional Guidelines” on page 35 for
details.
Renewal Process
Certification of your product is renewed annually through the
Heart-Check product application and renewal portal at
certification.heartcheckmark.org. Sixty days in advance of
your product’s expiration date, you receive an automated
email reminder. At that time, your product appears on the
Product(s) in Progress page. You must update any
information that has changed and pay the annual product
certification fee.
If you do not renew your product’s certification by the expiration date, you will receive an expiration letter outlining
the conditions of your failure to renew. If you choose not to renew certification, please consult the CMLA or
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CMPLA for details on when you must remove the Heart-Check mark from packaging and stop promoting the
product as certified.
Please be aware that expired products decrease your total product count. As a result, your products may be
placed in a lower tier, thereby increasing the certification fee you pay for each product. It is beneficial to renew
your products in advance of expiration.
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PACKAGING AND PROMOTIONAL GUIDELINES
This section outlines the standards, policies and restrictions for displaying the Heart-Check mark on packaging
and in promotions for your product. You cannot promote your product as certified until the following guidelines are
met and packaging and promotional materials are approved by Heart-Check program staff.
The American Heart Association’s corporate service mark – the heart and torch – must not be substituted for the
Heart-Check mark or used in any promotions of certified food products.
Graphic Standards
Using the Appropriate Mark
Companies participating in the Heart-Check program prior to September 2011 must transition to using the new
Heart-Check mark (as depicted below) by Jan. 15, 2014. Companies new to the program must use the new
version of the mark immediately. The new design capitalizes on powerful elements of greatest relevance to
shoppers: the “American Heart Association” name, the word “certified” and the familiar red heart and checkmark.
The following certification mark may be used in advertising and promotions only if all products mentioned or
shown in the advertising are certified under the same certification criteria.
To guard against an erroneous implied suggestion that all displayed food products are certified when there is a
mix of certified and non-certified products in sponsor advertisements or promotional materials, there must be a
distinction made between the certified and non-certified foods. The distinction can be achieved by a physical
positioning or separation of certified and non-certified food products and/or a statement. (Examples of the latter
statement are: “products with the Heart-Check mark are certified by the American Heart Association,” “please look
for the Heart-Check mark on certified foods,” or “certified products display this mark.”) In addition, the Heart-
Check mark may not be used on any single page that displays only non-certified products within a multi-page
promotional piece.
Don’t Forget …
If your company is new to the program,
use the new version of the Heart-Check
mark. Companies using the old mark must
switch to the new design by Jan. 15, 2014.
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

File Types
CMYK
PMS
Note: To view the PMS file as it will print, turn on
“overprint preview” in Adobe Illustrator.
Grayscale
Black & White
File Formats
Below are recommendations for each format.
EPS Files (CMYK, PMS, Grayscale and Black & White)
The EPS files apply to printed materials. They are native to Adobe Illustrator. They can be opened in Illustrator or
placed in QuarkXpress, Adobe InDesign and other applications. The EPS files are vector files that can be
enlarged or reduced without losing their integrity.
JPEG (RGB)
The JPEG files apply to digital media, such as websites, television, etc. They are pixel-based files that can be
placed in Microsoft PowerPoint, Adobe Dreamweaver and other applications. They should be used at 100% of
their current size and may become pixilated if enlarged. These files have a white background and are best utilized
when placed on a white background.
PNG (RGB)
The PNG files apply to digital media, such as websites, television, etc. They are pixel-based files that can be
placed in Microsoft PowerPoint, Adobe Dreamweaver and other applications. They should be used at 100% of
their current size and may become pixilated if enlarged. These files have a transparent background and are best
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utilized when placed on photos or color backgrounds.
Flexography (CMYK & PMS)
These simplified EPS files apply to challenging printing processes, such as flexography or silk screening. They
are native to Adobe Illustrator. They can be opened in Illustrator or placed in QuarkXpress, Adobe InDesign and
other applications. The EPS files are vector files that can be enlarged or reduced without losing their integrity.
Typeface
• The font is Helvetica Neue.
Symbol/Type Proportional Relationship
• The Heart-Check mark should always be used in its entirety and not re-typeset in any way. This will
ensure the proportional relationship of the wording and the Heart-Check mark.
• For extremely small labels, packages or promotional pieces, smaller sizes of the Heart-Check mark may
be submitted for consideration.
• The ratio of height to width must be maintained when scaling the mark.
Color
Minimum size: 0.875” X 0.6875”
Maximum size: 1.25” X 1”
• Pantone ® * 485 (red) is the recommended color for the heart, the rule, the word “certified” and the mark
border. Black is the recommended color for the American Heart Association name and descriptor
statement. (Process red color formulation is 100% magenta and 100% yellow.)
• Other acceptable Pantone colors are 206, 199, 192, 186, 185, Pantone Red 032 and 1788. Custom
colors are also acceptable, but samples must be submitted for approval.
• When the Heart-Check mark is used on a product that has red in its established color scheme, this red
may be considered as a replacement for Pantone 485 if the red is a “true” red (not burgundy, pink,
orange, rust, magenta, etc.). The substituted color must be approved by the American Heart Association.
• Two-color option: The heart, the rule, the word “certified” and the mark border may be printed in Pantone
485. The American Heart Association name and statement may be printed in black.
• One-color option: The entire Heart-Check mark may be printed in black, but only if the specified color
options are not available.
NOTE: The checkmark within the heart must be white, except when the mark appears reversed out in white.
*Pantone, Inc.’s check-standard trademark for color reproduction and color reproduction materials.
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Packaging Do’s & Don’ts
Do:
FDA/USDA Coronary Heart Disease Health Claim Language
Pursuant to the FDA/USDA regulations
(21CFR101.14[d][2][iv]; see complete reference in text box
below), the use of a heart-shaped logo, such as the Heart-Check
mark, or use of the word “heart,” as in the name “American Heart
Association,” is considered an implied health claim. Execution of
the CMLA or CMPLA indicates your agreement to comply with
all applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations and
government agency rules, including, but not limited to, food
labeling laws. Therefore, the FDA/USDA health claim regulations
must be fully satisfied, which includes using appropriate health
claim language on the product package or label.
The FDA/USDA health claim language must be in close
proximity to the Heart-Check mark – but not inside the shield.
Alternatively, a referral statement may be used per the FDA
regulation below.
21CFR101.14(d)(2)(iv): All information required to be
included in the claim appears in one place without
other intervening material, except that the principal
display panel of the label or labeling may bear the
reference statement: “See ____ for information about
the relationship between ____ and ____,” with the
blanks filled in with the location of the labeling
containing the health claim, the name of the
substance, and the disease or health-related
condition (e.g., “See attached pamphlet for
information about calcium and osteoporosis”), with
the entire claim appearing elsewhere on the other
labeling, provided that, where any graphic material
(e.g., a heart symbol) constituting an explicit or
implied health claim appears on the label or labeling,
the reference statement or the complete claim shall
appear in immediate proximity to such graphic
material.
The American Heart Association’s intent is to help direct you to
applicable regulations to facilitate the performance of your
obligations under the CMLA or CMPLA with the American Heart
Association. However, it is not the American Heart Association’s
responsibility to ensure products meet the FDA/USDA regulatory
requirements for health claims. Compliance is the sole
responsibility of your company. Because the regulations often
involve multiple conditions and are subject to some degree of
interpretation about how they may be applied, it is your
responsibility to consult with your regulatory legal counsel at
your expense to ensure compliance.
Do add the Heart-Check mark on
front of the product packaging
where consumers can see it.
Do add FDA/USDA health claim
language in close proximity to the
Heart-Check mark (it’s required).
Do visually separate – preferably
in a different panel – the Heart-
Check mark from health claims
other than those against which we
certify (see page 11), such as
soy.
Do have a mockup of your
packaging with the mark properly
placed ready to upload when you
log on to apply for certification.
Contact Kimberly Pruitt (214-706-
1233; Kimberly.Pruitt@heart.org)
for assistance.
Do ask questions if you need
further guidance.
Don’t:
Don’t separate the components of
the Heart-Check mark. The mark
should only be used in its entirety.
Don’t change the colors of the
Heart-Check mark to match your
packaging. Only use approved
colors of red, white or black.
Don’t print words or images over
the Heart-Check mark.
Don’t superimpose the mark on
backgrounds that would impair
immediate recognition and
readability. Unacceptable
backgrounds include heavily
speckled papers, grid patterns
and photos with high-contrast or
excessive detail.
Don’t alter the height/width ratio
of the Heart-Check mark, or the
proportional relationship between
the elements of the mark.
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For additional information about health claim language requirements, contact the FDA at 240-402-1774.
USDA has adopted some codified health claims but does not currently allow for any FDA Modernization Act or
Qualified Health Claims. If your USDA-regulated product is qualified to make a health claim, all labeling
regulations and health claim language requirements will apply.
For additional information about packaging reviews and health claim language requirements, contact the USDA at
askfsis.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/802/session/L3RpbWUvMTMyMjY4MzA5NS9zaWQvWXNQU2JyS
2s%3D or labeling@custhelp.com.
Health Claim Language by Certification Category
The following table reflects certification category claims and the corresponding health claim language
requirement.
Certification Category Claims
FDA/USDA Health Claim Language Requirements
Saturated Fat, Cholesterol, and Trans
Fat, and Reduced Risk of Heart Disease
(Docket #2006Q-0458)
Dietary Saturated Fat and Cholesterol,
and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease
(21 CFR 101.75)
Required wording for the claim:
“Diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and as low as possible
in trans fat, may reduce the risk of heart disease.”
Model claim language:
“While many factors affect heart disease, diets low in saturated
fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of this disease.”
Whole Grain Foods with Moderate Fat
Content
(Docket #03Q-0547)
Nuts & Heart Disease
(Docket #02P-0505)
Required wording for the claim:
“Diets rich in whole grain foods and other plant foods, and low in
saturated fat and cholesterol, may help reduce the risk of heart
disease.”
Required wording for the claim:
“Scientific evidence suggests but does not prove that eating 1.5
ounces per day of most nuts [such as name of specific nut] as
part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the
risk of heart disease. [See nutrition information for fat content.]”
[Note: The bracketed phrase naming a specific nut is optional.
The bracketed fat content disclosure statement is applicable to a
claim made for whole or chopped nuts.]
Omega-3 Fatty Acids & Coronary Heart
Disease
(Docket #2003Q-0401)
Required wording for the claim:
“Supportive but not conclusive research shows that consumption
of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of
coronary heart disease. One serving of [name of the food]
provides [number of grams] gram[s] of EPA and DHA omega-3
fatty acids. [See nutrition information for total fat, saturated fat,
and cholesterol content.]”
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Food Styling
Food styling must convey an image perceived as heart-healthy.
With the growing public health concern over the incidence of
obesity and overweight in the U.S., it is very important that food
photography convey an image that shows how the product fits
into an overall heart-healthy eating plan. Food styling
guidelines include:
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• Individual servings must be representative of a
product’s standard serving size. If the image appears to
exceed the standard serving size, it may not be
approved or the American Heart Association may
require disclaimer language adjacent to the image.
Sample disclaimer: “Standard serving is __ ounces.
This item contains __ servings.”
• Any food appearing to be eaten by one person in one
sitting (sandwiches, salads, soup, spaghetti, etc.)
should not contain more than one serving of the
certified product. Items containing more than one
serving will require a serving size disclaimer statement
adjacent to the image.
• Serving suggestions, including displays of multiple
servings or preparation methods, should minimize the
use of condiments or additional food items in the image
that might result in the finished product being perceived
as not heart-healthy. Food stylists should not embellish
the certified products with foods high in fat or sodium,
such as pickles, cheese, mayonnaise or potato chips.
The American Heart Association must approve all images, and
is the final authority on the appropriateness of images.
Companies are encouraged to contact Heart-Check program
staff with questions prior to photo shoots.
Company Website
We encourage you to promote your product’s certification on
your company website. Although the Heart-Check mark graphic
may not be used as a hyperlink, we suggest you place one of
the following sentences near the mark:
• For a list of products certified by the American Heart
Association and information on heart health, visit
heartcheckmark.org.
• For more information on heart-healthy living and to
create a free grocery list, visit heartcheckmark.org.
• For more information on American Heart Association
food certification, visit heartcheckmark.org.
Do not place information about product certification on websites
for holding companies, partners, distributors or retailers of
certified products.
Promotional Do’s & Don’ts
© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012
Do:
Do send promotional materials for
approval before they are finalized.
For example, when preparing a
television commercial, send the
script and/or story board for
approval before filming. You can
minimize design fees by providing
copy for approval before
promotional materials are designed.
Do remember the American Heart
Association promotes healthy
eating. Take this approach when
styling your food, writing
promotional copy and choosing
media outlets.
Do allow for at least 12 business
days for promotional reviews by
Heart-Check program staff.
Do limit portions to one serving in
photos of certified products.
Oversized portions are not allowed.
Do consider us a resource. We can
provide guidance on leveraging the
Heart-Check mark in your
marketing, advertising and media
materials.
Don’t:
Do not use the Heart-Check mark in
connection with restaurant menu
items, sweepstakes and fundraising
promotions. You may use the mark
in connection with recipes and
coupons, but there must be a visual
separation.
Do not imply exclusivity. Even if a
product is the only or first product
certified in its category, exclusivity
claims or messaging will not be
approved.

Product Package Samples
The images below show acceptable alignment of the Heart-Check mark on a food package. Please note the size
relationship of the Heart-Check mark to the overall face of the product package. The mark should be large
enough to be read easily, but without the product appearing to be an American Heart Association-branded
product. Please also note the close proximity of the health claim language and the Heart-Check mark.
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Packaging Questions? Contact Kimberly Pruitt at
214-706-1233 or Kimberly.Pruitt@heart.org
Promotions Questions? Contact Jacy Cochran at
214-706-1352 or reviews@heart.org
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© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

Common Mistakes
Packaging Reviews
Any visual use of the Heart-Check mark or mention of certification
must receive written approval from the American Heart Association
prior to use. Please confirm the packaging materials adhere to all
Graphic Standards requirements before submission.
Packaging artwork and copy displaying the Heart-Check mark must
be submitted electronically to the American Heart Association
for written approval. This must be completed before printing any
packaging displaying the Heart-Check mark.
Once you enter your product into the system at
certification.heartcheckmark.org, you will receive high-resolution
images of the Heart-Check mark by email. Submit packaging
artwork and copy as a PDF file during the online application process
(see “New Product Application” on page 32 for details). Contact
Kimberly Pruitt at 214-706-1233 or Kimberly.Pruitt@heart.org for
assistance.
Written substantiation or supporting studies must be submitted when
making a scientific or general health claim. Science review by Heart-
Check program staff may take 10 to 15 business days.
Packaging approvals are effective for 12 months or until your
product certification expires, whichever comes first.
Companies are contractually obligated to resubmit packaging for
approval when any changes are made, including, but not limited to,
the product’s formula, ingredient list, Nutrition Facts panel and/or the
use, treatment or location of the Heart-Check mark.
Please remember that final, written approval will not be granted
until your CMLA or CMPLA with Product Schedule addendum is
signed by both parties.
Promotional Reviews
Companies are encouraged to use the Heart-Check mark and refer
to the product’s certification in advertising, marketing and
promotions. However, you must receive prior written approval
from the American Heart Association.
Download the Promotion Review Form at heartcheckmark.org/certify.
Submit a completed form along with materials for review to Jacy
Cochran at reviews@heart.org. Please verify that the promotional
materials adhere to all Graphic Standards requirements (see page
35) before submission. For example, you may promote your
Avoid these common mistakes
when developing your packaging
and promotional materials:
The American Heart
Association “certifies” products.
It does not “endorse,” “approve”
or “recognize” products.
The American Heart
Association only certifies
products, not product lines,
brands or companies. It is
incorrect for your company to
say “we” are certified.
It is not the American Heart
Association’s responsibility to
ensure products meet the
FDA/USDA regulatory
requirements for nutrient
content claims, health claims or
other claims for which there is a
regulatory definition beyond
those required by the Heart-
Check Food Certification
Program. These claims, such
as “low in sodium” or “high in
fiber,” are beyond the scope of
certification criteria.
Compliance is the responsibility
of your company.
A reasonable consumer should
be able to easily distinguish
between certified products and
non-certified products.
Do not use “AHA,” “The
Association” or “The Heart
Association.” Always spell out
“American Heart Association” in
its entirety.
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product’s certification with a coupon or recipe, but there must be a visual separation.
For promotions on your company website, post the final Web page design on a test site. Submit the URL or JPEG
images of the test site with the Promotion Review Form.
Written substantiation or supporting studies must be submitted when making a scientific or general health claim in
any type of promotion, including national advertisements and media materials. Please allow 10 to 15 business
days for American Heart Association internal reviews, including science review of health claims and review of
national ads and media materials by the American Heart Association’s communications department.
Promotional approvals are effective for 12 consecutive months or until your product certification expires,
whichever comes first.
If an advertising, promotion or public relations agency will submit materials on behalf of your company, you
must provide contact information for the agency to the American Heart Association, thus granting permission to
work with the agency. This information can be provided on the New Company or Trade Association Application.
Please remember that final, written approval will not be granted until your CMLA or CMPLA with Product
Schedule addendum is signed by both parties.
Packaging Questions? Contact Kimberly Pruitt at 214-
706-1233 or Kimberly.Pruitt@heart.org
Promotions Questions? Contact Jacy Cochran at 214-
706-1352 or reviews@heart.org
Don’t Forget …
Use of the Heart-Check mark without prior written approval
constitutes a breach of contract. In all cases, use of the Heart-Check
mark or mention of certification must be submitted to the American Heart
Association for approval before publication, printing or production.
Distribution of packaging or promotional materials is not authorized
until the Certification Mark License Agreement (CMLA) or Certification
Mark Promotion License Agreement (CMPLA) and Product Schedule
is fully executed with the American Heart Association.
Only Heart-Check program staff can approve packaging, advertising,
promotion and public relations materials displaying the Heart-Check mark.
Individuals at local American Heart Association offices are not authorized to
approve materials related to the Heart-Check Food Certification Program.
Expired or terminated products must discontinue use of the mark on
packaging and in promotions per the terms and conditions indicated in the
CMLA or CMPLA.
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EXPANDING YOUR RELATIONSHIP
WITH THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION
Your company’s relationship with the American Heart Association can extend beyond the Heart-Check Food
Certification Program. The American Heart Association offers additional opportunities for growing the visibility and
reach of your company and brand, while also helping the American Heart Association fulfill its mission to save
lives.
Industry Nutrition Advisory Panel
The American Heart Association’s Industry Nutrition Advisory Panel (INAP) is a strategic relationship between our
Nutrition Committee and food industry leaders.
The INAP brings together industry and science representatives twice a year to exchange information and ideas
about the science of nutrition, diet and lifestyle as it relates to overall cardiovascular disease. The benefits of
INAP membership include:
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Networking
Relationship-building
Education on relevant topics from the nutrition, physical activity, behavior and obesity areas
Opportunity to get the latest updates on American Heart Association initiatives
Provide input to the American Heart Association regarding potential scientific statements and positions
Interaction with American Heart Association staff involved in nutrition-related issues
An INAP member can represent any for-profit or not-for-profit corporation, trade organization or agency whose
objectives are in alignment with the American Heart Association and INAP mission. Industry members are
charged a one-year fee of $10,000 and must be current with payments to be an active member.
For more information about INAP, including how to join, go to heart.org/INAP.
Corporate Relationships
The American Heart Association offers sponsorship opportunities to reach the general public, ethnically diverse
populations, patients, professional audiences and healthcare systems. Finding the right sponsorship opportunity
begins with sharing an overview of the strategic direction, goals and tactics of the American Heart Association
and the potential sponsor, and then finding mutually beneficial synergies.
Sponsorships can support existing programs, or initiatives can be customized through a collaborative
development process. Corporate and/or product alignment with the American Heart Association, a leading
national nonprofit brand, is a solid way to maximize a return on marketing dollars invested. Based on results from
a Gallup poll, your brand could benefit from:
• Brand Awareness: 96 percent of consumers are aware of the American Heart Association name, and 98
percent have a favorable reaction to the American Heart Association heart-and-torch logo.
• Purchase Influence: 90 percent of consumers say they are more likely to buy a product associated with
the American Heart Association.
Sponsorship opportunities are also available for several new nutrition programs and assets, which are particularly
appropriate for companies choosing to participate in the Heart-Check Food Certification Program. To learn more
about these opportunities and the many initiatives of the American Heart Association, contact Dennis Milne at
214-706-1351 or Dennis.Milne@heart.org.
© Copyright 2012 American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program, Rev. 1/2012

In-Store Themed Events
Positioning grocery stores as “health and wellness” destinations has become a major retail strategy to strengthen
shopper loyalty and increase return visits. Retail innovation includes partnering with organizations such as the
American Heart Association to add credibility to those programs.
The American Heart Association facilitates proactive collaborations with consumer packaged goods companies,
trade associations and grocery retailers to implement solutions-based shopper marketing programs delivered
directly in stores. For more information about in-store health and wellness events, contact Dennis Milne at 214-
706-1351 or Dennis.Milne@heart.org.
Custom Publications
The American Heart Association’s Consumer Publications department works with food companies,
pharmaceutical companies, insurance companies, exercise equipment companies and other corporations to
create custom publications. A custom publication includes American Heart Association recipes and/or content that
is repurposed into a specially branded publication. The custom publication is paid for by the company or sponsor.
Examples of custom publications include:
• Calendars
• Journals
• Mini-cookbooks
• Other print products
For more information on how to customize a publication, contact Dennis Milne at 214-706-1351 or
Dennis.Milne@heart.org.
American Heart Association CPR & First Aid
Saving lives is our business. We fund the research and develop the
courses to train lifesavers. Every workplace should be safe. That’s
why we prepare employees to respond to any life-threatening event,
whether it’s a cardiac emergency, on-the-job accident or workplace
disaster. As more companies have access to on-site AEDs, our
training ensures employees are confident and ready to act in an
emergency. For more information, go to heart.org/CPR.
For companies that need to train a large number of employees in multiple locations across the country, the
American Heart Association created HeartQuarters Training. Your employees receive consistent, high-quality
training in first aid, CPR, AED use and blood-borne pathogens. The flexibility of HeartQuarters Training gives you
the option of classroom courses and eLearning courses to train your employees. HeartQuarters Training stands
apart from other national training programs and can provide your company with an efficient and direct process for
training your employees. For more information, go to heart.org/heartquarterstraining.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Q1: How does Heart-Check certification benefit my company and my brand?
A1: Heart-Check certification provides added credibility for your company and brand, and boosts your product’s
visibility and sales. Certification from the American Heart Association is especially meaningful to consumers
because it signifies the independent voice of a trusted health organization. Seeing the mark on a food package
assures shoppers they are making a smart choice.
Q2: How does the Heart-Check mark benefit consumers?
A2: The Heart-Check mark gives consumers an easy, reliable way to identify heart-healthy foods. The familiar
mark helps families eat healthier by providing shoppers with clear purchase guidance from a trusted source.
Q3: How does the Heart-Check program differ from other food certification programs?
A3: Started in 1995, the Heart-Check Food Certification Program is the longest-running established program.
Consumer research shows shoppers trust the American Heart Association more than anyone else to certify food
products (see graphic below). The program also outperformed other leading on-package icons in terms of aided
brand awareness and purchase intent and follow-through (see “About the Program” on page 3).
Source: 2009 American Heart Association quantitative study
Q4: Can any food company apply a product for certification?
A4: A food product produced by a tobacco company or its subsidiaries may not be certified.
Q5: What products are not eligible for certification?
A5: The American Heart Association does not certify products that do not fit into a heart-healthy eating plan. See
page 7 for a complete list of products and/or categories that are not eligible for Heart-Check certification.
Q6: How can I use the Heart-Check mark?
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A6: Once your product is certified, you may display the Heart-Check mark on product packaging and in
advertising, public relations and promotions. Examples include television, radio, print, trade show booth and point
of sale.
PROGRAM NUTRITIONAL GUIDELINES
Q7: How were the nutritional criteria determined for the Heart-Check program?
A7: The Heart-Check nutrient criteria and guidelines were developed based on the American Heart Association
scientific statements covering diet and lifestyle, added sugars intake and cardiovascular health promotion and
disease reduction.
In addition, use of a heart image on a food label or in labeling constitutes an implied coronary heart disease
health claim. To qualify to use the Heart-Check mark, products must meet government regulatory requirements
for making coronary heart disease health claims.
Q8: What if I’m not sure whether my product nutritionally meets the certification requirements?
A8: A pre-screening program is available to determine whether your product is nutritionally eligible to participate in
the Heart-Check program before you formally apply for certification. See “Product Pre-Screening Program” on
page 8 for details.
Q9: What if I reformulate a product that has already been certified?
A9: If you reformulate a currently certified product, thereby changing the nutritional profile, you must notify us in
writing and submit a new Nutrition Facts panel, an ingredient list and possibly a lab analysis for review. No
additional fees are required. Contact your Account Manager for details.
Q10: If my product fails to meet nutrient criteria required for certification, can I reapply?
A10: Yes. You may reapply for certification after reformulating your product to address the nutrient(s) of concern.
However, you must provide lab testing results that demonstrate your product is compliant with nutrient criteria.
PROGRAM FEES
Q11: What is the fee to apply for certification?
A11: A new company is required to pay a non-refundable set-up fee before products can apply for certification.
Once your company is approved, product certification fees vary based on the total number of applying products.
The more products you submit for certification, the lower the fee per product. A reduced fee structure is also
allowed when products’ Nutrition Facts panels and ingredient lists are identical and the products differ only by the
label or form. See “Program Fees” on page 28 for details.
NEW COMPANY OR TRADE ASSOCIATION APPLICATION
Q12: What are the steps to apply for certification?
A12: First, your company must be approved for participation in the program. This step involves an application
form you can download from heartcheckmark.org/certify, set-up fee and license agreement that must be signed
before moving forward. You can then submit your product online for certification. See “Overview of Steps to
Certification” on page 9 for details.
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Q13: Who do I contact if I have questions or need help with the application process?
A13: If your company is new to the Heart-Check program, please contact April Whitfield at 214-706-1819 or
April.Whitfield@heart.org. Companies actively involved in the program should contact their Account Manager to
add and renew products, resolve certification-related issues and ask questions. If you are unsure who your
Account Manager is, please contact Kimberly Pruitt at 214-706-1233 or Kimberly.Pruitt@heart.org.
NEW PRODUCT APPLICATION
Q14: How long does the product certification process take?
A14: Product review by Heart-Check program staff takes four weeks after receipt of all required information and
fees. However, it may take longer if lab testing is required. Once your product is certified, review of promotional
materials requires 10 to 15 business days. See “New Product Application” on page 32 for details.
Q15: How long is my product certified?
A15: Your product’s certification is valid for one year (12 consecutive months). You can easily renew your product
online at certification.heartcheckmark.org.
Q16: Is there a limit on how many products a single company can certify?
A16: Your company may certify up to 500 different products. See “Program Fees” on page 28 for details on
volume discounts.
Q17: Will my product undergo lab testing?
A17: Lab testing is required when a product’s nutrient values are close to exceeding the certification criteria limits.
There may be other instances when lab testing is needed to verify compliance of a product with certification
criteria. See “When a Lab Test Is Required” on page 26 for details.
PACKAGING AND PROMOTIONAL GUIDELINES
Q18: Where can I place the Heart-Check mark on the product packaging?
A18: Place the Heart-Check mark on front of the product packaging where consumers can see it. See “Packaging
and Promotional Guidelines” on page 35 for details.
Q19: What happens if I decide not to renew my product?
A19: You will receive an expiration letter outlining the conditions of your failure to renew. If you choose not to
renew certification, please consult the CMLA or CMPLA for details on when you must remove the Heart-Check
mark from packaging and stop promoting the product as certified.
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