Nutrition rating systems present opportunities for educating consumers about nutrition and promoting changes in dietary practices, but their varied formats and differing underlying criteria pose potential problems.  This paper analyzes the future of nutrition rating systems by (1) Outlining the major front-of-package labeling and grocery shelf rating systems; (2) Examining the Smart Choices Program, a self-regulatory front-of-package labeling system introduced, and ultimately suspended, in 2009; (3) Discussing FDA's role in overseeing food labeling; (4) Weighing the benefits of these rating systems against their potential to confuse consumers; and (5) Recommending additional research regarding the effectiveness of nutrition rating systems.