Front-of-Package Push: Experts Demand Health Labels on Packaged Foods

Health specialists in Bangladesh have called for the urgent implementation of front-of-package labeling (FOPL) on packaged foods to protect public health. They emphasize that sugar, salt, and trans fat content should be clearly indicated on product packaging to combat the rising burden of non-communicable diseases, which account for 70% of deaths in the country.

The call was made during a consultative meeting titled “Front-of-Package Labeling (FOPL) for Public Health: International Experiences and Way Forward” held on 10 January (Saturday) in Dhaka. The event was jointly organized by the Center for Law and Policy Affairs (CLPA), ARC Foundation, and Public Health Lawyers Network.

Experts highlighted that 97% of the population consumes packaged food weekly, yet lack of clear nutritional information exposes them to serious health risks. Annually, nearly 6.4 million people face financial hardship due to medical expenses linked to diet-related illnesses.

The World Health Organization-recommended FOPL system places health warnings and nutrient content on the front of packaging, helping consumers make healthier choices and ensuring accountability from companies. Specialists stressed that misleading marketing particularly affects children, with carbonated drinks and juices often lacking proper health warnings—contrary to international standards.

Speakers at the event included Professor Dr. Md. Shoeb (Bangladesh Food Safety Authority), Engineer Md. Abdullah Al Mamun (BSTI), Md. Ruhul Kuddus (GHAI), Professor Dr. Md. Atikul Haque (BSMMU), and Professor Rumana Haque (ARC Foundation). They urged swift adoption of science-based FOPL regulations free from vested interests.

DBTech/JNU/EK/OR