How the Heart-Check Food Certification Program Works

The Heart-Check mark makes it easy to spot heart-healthy foods in the grocery store. Simply look for the name of the American Heart Association along with our familiar red heart with a white check mark on the package or menu. But not all heart-healthy claims you see are from the American Heart Association; look for the AHA name to be sure. When you spot the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check mark, you'll instantly know the food has been certified to meet our nutrition requirements. It's a good first step in creating an overall sensible eating plan.

A research study finds that choosing foods that meet Heart-Check certification requirements linked to better diet quality. Learn about the steps you can take to navigate the certification process.

The American Heart Association Heart-Check Food Certification Program is designed to help consumers make informed choices about the foods they purchase. The nutrition requirements are food-based and intended for healthy people over age two. The Heart-Check program is not a dietary solution for any particular condition or disease. People with medical conditions or dietary restrictions should follow the advice of their healthcare professionals.

If you have questions about the Heart-Check certification program or are interested in participating, please call us at 214-706-1160 or email us at [email protected] to learn more about food and beverage certification, the certification process and complimentary pre-screens for your products. Fees paid by food manufacturers participating in the certification program are to cover administrative costs and operating expenses. No donations are used to support the program.