International Institute for Legislative Affairs (ILA) has challenged Kenyan policy makers to come up with a mandatory legislation which will compel baby food manufacturers to incorporate front of package labels clearly indicating nutrition content on all complimentary feeding products saying the move will empower consumers to tell whether a product contains added sugar, and how much is present, based on nutritional information printed on packaging alone.
According International Institute for Legislative Affairs (ILA), Chief executive officer (CEO), Celine Awuor, the front of pack labels (FOPWLs) are effective in helping consumers identify products high in harmful ingredients like sugar, sodium, saturated fat, and trans-fat, and improve awareness of the health risks associated with these foods and beverages. She further explains that the mandatory front-of-pack warning labels (FOPWLs) have emerged as a potential evidence-based solution to preventing obesity and chronic diseases.
“We strongly advocate for the urgent implementation of evidence-based mandatory FOPWLs in Kenya. By providing clear and accessible information about the sugar content in food products, the Ministry of Health can empower parents to make healthier choices and protect children’s health from the dangers of excessive sugar consumption. It’s imperative that we prioritize the health of our children,” said Celine Awuor, CEO at the International Institute for Legislative Affairs.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized the importance of limiting sugar intake highlighting broader implications for children’s health. According to WHO excessive sugar consumption during childhood is associated with numerous health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
The ILA call to action comes in the backdrop of the ongoing global dialogue about childhood obesity and its underlying causes with attention turned to the recent expose on standard disparity of manufacturing practices of major food companies.
According to a recent ‘standards disparity’ revelation made by Public Eye investigation published in the BMJ in April which pointed out that Nestlé adds sugars and honey to some of its baby cereal and formula in lower-income countries, while products sold in Europe and other countries are advertised with “no added sugars.
The report revealed that Nestlé, a prominent player in the market recently faced criticism for adding excess sugar in infant milk and children’s cereals in low- and middle-income countries while the same products remain sugar free in Nestlé’s home country of Switzerland and across Europe. This has sparked widespread concern among health advocates and the public in Kenya.
Celine explains that there are several types of front-of-pack labeling, but studies from around the world have shown that the most effective are warning labels that appear on the front package and state that a product is “high in” or has “excessive” amounts of harmful ingredients.
Many countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Israel, Mexico, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela, have passed laws requiring mandatory FOPWLs. South Africa’s ongoing endeavors to implement Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWL) highlight a broader regional dedication among African countries to promote public health policies that prioritize consumer well-being.
There is a pressing need for the Ministry of Health to act swiftly in response to Nestlé’s actions. Prioritizing the implementation of Front of Pack Warning Labels would not only hold companies like Nestlé accountable for their actions but would also protect the health and well-being of Kenya’s children. This case highlights the necessity for increased transparency and regulation in the food industry. It serves as a call to action for the Kenyan government to step forward and protect its citizens, especially the most vulnerable, from the harmful effects of excessive sugar consumption, Celine emphasized.
“The time for action is now, and mandatory evidence-based FOPWLs can play a significant role in safeguarding children’s health in Kenya. These warning labels will offer clear and accessible information to consumers about the sugar content in food products, empowering them to make healthier choices for themselves and their families.”
By implementing FOPWLs, the Ministry of Health can take proactive steps to safeguard children’s health and equip parents with the information they need to protect their child’s future.
