Paper: GS – III, Subject: Economy, Topic: Food Security, Issue: Mandatory FSSAI warning labels.
Context:
The Supreme Court urged FSSAI to evaluate mandatory front-of-package warning labels (FOPL) on packaged products rich in sugar, salt, and saturated fat.
- The move is linked to rising non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and consumer health rights.
Key Takeaways:
Court Mandate Transparent Food Labelling:
Health Implications: High intake of sugar, salt, and saturated fat is linked to rising non-communicable diseases.
- ICMR-INDIAB data:
- 101 million (11.4%) have diabetes.
- 136 million are prediabetic.
- Hypertension: 35.5%; abdominal obesity: 39.5%; high cholesterol: 24%.
- Consumer Empowerment:
- Petitioners argued clear labels help people make healthier food choices.
- Warning labels can guide consumers to avoid harmful products.
Rating System Controversy:
- FSSAI proposed an Indian Nutrition Rating model.
- Petitioners opposed it, citing mismatch with global standards and possible consumer confusion.
Need for Transparency:
- Push for clear disclosure of sugar, salt, and fat content on packages.
- Helps consumers make informed dietary choices.
Preventive Health Focus: Front-of-package labelling promotes early awareness and aims to reduce lifestyle diseases through prevention.
The Supreme Court’s push for front-of-package warning labels on unhealthy processed foods aims to improve public health by enabling informed consumer choices. Effective, transparent implementation with stakeholder cooperation can help curb rising non-communicable diseases through preventive awareness.
Source: (The Hindu)
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