A proposal to introduce front-of-pack labelling on food products has sparked a debate between food companies, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), and health institutions.
A proposal to introduce front-of-pack labelling on food products has divided opinions between food companies, the FSSAI, and health institutions. The proposed labelling would display key nutritional information on the front of food packaging to help consumers make more informed decisions about their food choices.
The FSSAI has been advocating for front-of-pack labelling for several years, arguing that it would improve public health by increasing awareness of the nutritional content of food products. The agency believes that such labelling would empower consumers to make healthier choices and reduce the prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
However, food companies have expressed concerns about the proposal, arguing that it could lead to increased costs and decreased competitiveness. The industry has also raised concerns about the accuracy of the labelling, stating that it could be misleading to consumers if not implemented correctly.
Health institutions, on the other hand, have supported the proposal, stating that it would help consumers make more informed decisions about their food choices. They argue that front-of-pack labelling would make it easier for consumers to compare nutritional information across different food products and help them choose healthier options.
The proposed front-of-pack labelling would display a range of nutritional information, including calorie count, saturated fat, sugar, and salt content. The labelling would be colour-coded, with a red, amber, or green rating system indicating whether the food is high, medium, or low in a particular nutrient.
While some food companies have already implemented front-of-pack labelling voluntarily, there are concerns that without a regulatory framework, there will be inconsistencies in the implementation and accuracy of the labelling.
The FSSAI has stated that it will continue to advocate for front-of-pack labelling and is working on a regulatory framework to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the labelling.
In conclusion, the debate over front-of-pack labelling highlights the need for a balance between consumer health and industry competitiveness. While the FSSAI believes that the labelling would improve public health, food companies have raised concerns about the impact on their bottom line. Health institutions have supported the proposal, stating that it would empower consumers to make healthier choices. The implementation of front-of-pack labelling will require a regulatory framework to ensure its accuracy and consistency
