Unhealthy food costs Pakistan billions

Unhealthy and harmful food is reportedly causing billions of dollars in losses to Pakistan’s economy every year health experts have warned.

Experts have urged the government to speed up the introduction of front of pack warning labels on unhealthy food and drinks.  They say the move could help reduce health related costs and save more money than the amount received under the country’s IMF programme.

The Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) along with public health experts and social media influencers has called for mandatory warning labels on ultra-processed foods and beverages.

Experts believe these

labels can help protect consumers reduce the use of unhealthy products and encourage people to make better food choices.

They have recommended clear black octagon shaped warning labels in Urdu on products that contain high levels of sugar sodium or saturated fat above the limits recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Similar warnings have also been proposed for products containing non sugar sweeteners. Experts say the labels should be simple, easy to understand and clearly visible keeping Pakistan’s local conditions and literacy levels in mind.

Food and nutrition policy expert Manor Hussain said Pakistan’s food environment is changing quickly. Children and young people in particular are increasingly exposed to processed and ultra processed foods and drinks.

Experts believe clear warning labels could help consumers understand the risks of unhealthy products before buying them and support healthier eating habits across the country.