Nuclear Reactor Consumer Labels
By Nick Touran, Ph.D., P.E., 2025-08-07 , Reading time: 1 minute
Reactor discussions are most productive when informed by a clear understanding of the reactors involved. Therefore, I propose we begin using standardized Nuclear Reactor Consumer Labels to display key information.
Just as nutrition facts on cereal boxes are governed by the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act of 1990 (codified in 21 CFR 101.9), these labels would provide a consistent and valuable resource. The Broadband Label Order (codified in 47 CFR 8.2) further demonstrates the effectiveness of standardized labels, requiring internet service providers to display Broadband Consumer Labels, often referred to as broadband nutrition labels, offering clear, standardized, and accurate information.
Standardized Nuclear Reactor Consumer Labels would be a beneficial addition. You can find definitions of the proposed fields on our advanced reactor page.
Taxpayers, investors, and other stakeholders involved in reactor development programs should rightfully demand access to at least this fundamental information from prospective reactor vendors. This information, a general definition of the reactor, is not proprietary or subject to export controls. If a vendor doesn’t provide it, I would generally advise against investing or supporting their project.