The FSSAI plans to issue a draft notification mandating the display of sugar, salt, and saturated fat content in bold letters and a larger font size. This will make this critical information more prominent and easier for consumers to locate on food labels.
The FSSAI emphasizes that this amendment aims to "empower consumers to better understand the nutritional value of the product they are consuming and make healthier decisions."
Public Health Focus: Combating Non-Communicable Diseases
The FSSAI highlights the additional benefit of this initiative - contributing to the fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs). NCDs such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers are often linked to excessive consumption of sugar, salt, and saturated fats. By raising awareness about these key ingredients, the FSSAI hopes to nudge consumers towards healthier food choices and potentially reduce the risk of NCDs.
Why is Transparency in Labels Important?
Currently, food labels in India already include nutritional information. However, this information can sometimes be presented in a way that makes it difficult for consumers to understand or locate quickly. The FSSAI's mandated changes to make the most relevant nutritional details stand out visually. This step helps the consumer get an idea of the exact amount of sugar or fats being consumed. This ensures a balanced diet.
Prioritizing Consumer Empowerment
This initiative aligns with global efforts to promote clear and informative food labeling standards. By making crucial nutritional information more prominent, the FSSAI hopes to contribute to a broader international push toward consumer empowerment.
This move by the FSSAI is a positive step towards promoting transparency in the food industry and empowering consumers to make informed choices. By prioritizing clear and accessible nutritional information on food labels, the FSSAI is taking a proactive approach to public health and well-being.
