Rawalpindi: The front-of-package labels (FOPL) provide crucial details about the nutritional content of ultra-processed foods, which are a significant contributor to the rising rates of obesity.

Ultra-processed products (UPPs), often laden with excessive sugar, salt, and trans-fats, significantly contribute to this health crisis. An unhealthy diet stands as a major modifiable risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

These concerns were raised at a meeting organised by the Pakistan National Heart Association (Panah) at a hotel in Islamabad. Health professionals, civil society organisations, health organisations and coalition partners of Panah attended the meeting.

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.

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.

Health professionals say absence of proper policies main reason people fail to adopt healthy food choices

FOPL keeps consumers away from UPP minimise risk of chronic diseases.

Country Coordinator Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI) Munawar Hussain said: “The annual cost of managing diabetes soared to over $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 emphasised the urgent need for policy action regulatory bodies to address the increasing risk of diabetes and other NCDs in Pakistan. He said FOPL played a crucial role in empowering consumers to make healthier choices.

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.

The general secretary of the Diabetic Association of Pakistan (DAP) said that over 41pc of adults in Pakistan were 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 clear and transparent labeling 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.

Dr Saba, CEO Heart File, said 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.

Sanaullah Ghumman said implementing clear warning labels on ultra-processed foods can help fight obesity by empowering consumers to make healthier choices. Transparent labelling provides the necessary information to avoid harmful products, promoting better dietary habits and improving public health outcomes.

Published in Dawn, August 17th, 2024