Researchers have modelled the long-term effect of nutrition labelling and found that it can lower obesity rates in the global south MANY of us made new year’s resolutions to be more health-conscious. One way to meet these goals is by reading the nutrition labels on prepackaged food items.Nutrition labels are a quick way to assess the amount of sugars, sodium, fats and calories in prepackaged food. Yet, all too often, these labels are difficult to interpret and can confuse even the most health-savvy consumer.The Department of Health has been addressing this problem in its draft Food Labelling Regulations, R429, proposed in June last year. The aim is to improve the nutrition information that food producers are required to display on prepackaged foods.In addition to clarifying nutrition facts in panels found on the back of food packaging, the department is proposing a voluntary "traffic light" label system on the front of packages, indicating high, medium or low amounts of fat, sugars ...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.