Front-of-package labels crucial to empower consumers in making healthier choices

Islamabad : Front-of-package labels (FOPL) that provide details about the nutritional contents of ultra-processed foods are crucial for empowering consumers to make healthy choices as the ultra-processed foods are a significant contributor to the rising rates of obesity and other complications.

Ultra-processed products (UPPs), often laden with excessive sugar, salt, and trans-fats, significantly contribute to obesity and an unhealthy diet stands as a major modifiable risk factor for a rise in non-communicable diseases. The absence of evidence based policies like front of pack nutrition labelling and warning signs on ultra-processed foods is among the primary reasons that people are unable to adopt healthy food choices.

This was stated by the experts in a meeting organized by Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) with its coalition partners here in a local hotel. Health professionals, members of civil society organizations and health organizations attended the meeting. Experts said that clear and concise labels help identify foods high in sodium, saturated fats, and sugars, which are key contributors to chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. FOPL keeps consumers away from ultra-processed products that would minimize the risk of chronic diseases.

Speaking on the occasion, Munawar Hussain, In-Country Coordinator Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI) said the annual cost of managing diabetes soared to over USD 2,640 million in Pakistan in 2021. Ultra-processed food and beverage products particularly sugary drinks and junk foods are major contributors to diabetes, heart disease, cancer, kidney failure, and other chronic diseases. He emphasized the urgent need for policy action regulatory bodies to address the increasing risk of diabetes and other NCDs in Pakistan. He highlighted that Front-of-Package Labels (FOPL) play a crucial role in empowering consumers to make healthier choices.

He added that clever marketing tactics and attractive packaging can disguise the high levels of sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium hidden within these products. As a result, many individuals unknowingly consume foods that contribute to serious health issues like diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.

General Secretary Diabetic Association of Pakistan (DAP) shared that over 41% of adults in Pakistan are either obese or overweight. Additionally, more than 33 million people are currently living with diabetes, with another 10 million on the verge of developing the disease. He said that clear and transparent labelling allows consumers to make informed decisions, potentially lowering the prevalence of conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

By encouraging healthier eating habits, we can alleviate the burden on our healthcare system and improve public health outcomes. Support the implementation of warning labels on ultra-processed foods to build a healthier future for all, he said. Dr. Saba, CEO Heart File shared that many countries in the world have enacted mandatory FOPLs on UPPs. FOPLs encourage healthier food choices. By clearly labelling ultra-processed foods, we empower consumers to make better choices, leading to a shift towards fresh, locally-grown foods. This shift benefits both farmers and consumers, creating a healthier nation and a more resilient agricultural economy. Sana Ullah Ghumman from PANAH said that implementing clear warning labels on ultra-processed foods can help fight obesity by empowering consumers to make better choices. Transparent labelling provides the necessary information to avoid harmful products, promoting better dietary habits and improving public health outcomes.