How can effective labelling of sugar and salt content impact public health in India?

Effective labelling of sugar and salt content on food products is a key strategy for promoting healthier dietary habits in India. With rising rates of non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, clear labels can guide consumers to make informed choices and help reduce health risks.

• Informed Consumer Choices: Clear labelling enables people to identify high sugar and salt products easily, encouraging them to opt for healthier alternatives.
• Prevention of Lifestyle Diseases: High intake of sugar and salt is linked to conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Labelling helps consumers limit their intake, reducing disease risk.
• Encourages Food Industry Reformulation: When labelling norms are strict, food manufacturers may reduce sugar and salt in their products to attract health-conscious buyers.
• Supports Public Health Campaigns: Labelling complements government efforts to educate the population about healthy eating, making such campaigns more effective.
• Empowers Vulnerable Groups: Children, elderly, and people with existing health conditions can better manage their diets when nutritional information is easily accessible.
• Promotes Transparency: Labelling builds trust by holding food companies accountable for the nutritional quality of their products.