A network of public health advocates yesterday called on the government to push for the placement of warning labels in “ultra-processed” food products to lower the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the country.
In a statement, the Healthy Philippines Alliance (HPA) said food warning labels provide the most effective scheme to address Filipinos’ consumption of unhealthy ultra-processed food.
“When packaging clearly identifies items high in sugar, sodium, and unhealthy fats, it helps guide Filipino consumers, including children and youth, toward healthier purchasing decisions,” said HPA youth convener Alyannah Lagasca.
“It’s our turn to test food warning labels that have great potential to empower Filipino consumers and prevent the rising incidents of diet-related NCDs that are slowly killing them,” added HPA lead convener Dr. Jaime Galvez Tan.
Results of the Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey that the HPA commissioned last June showed positive responses from those who saw mock-up food warning labels indicating high in sodium, saturated fats, and total fats.
Results showed that 28 percent decided they will not buy the product, 44 percent said they will look for other options, while 17 percent said they will buy less than what they usually consume.
“The message is clear: warning labels on food products are effective,” said Lagasca.
“Ultimately, our goal is to empower consumers to make informed decisions — to pause, reflect, and choose wisely,” said Tan.
