Press Release

7 May 2009

FPH welcomes final report on single scheme for front-of-pack nutrition labelling.

UK Faculty of Public Health (FPH) welcomes the final report on nutrition signpost labelling by an independent group of experts, commissioned by the Food Standards Agency and published today.  The research shows that shoppers want a simple front-of-pack scheme.

Professor Alan Maryon-Davis, FPH President, said: "The message from this important research is loud and clear. Consumers want a single traffic-light type labelling system giving them a quick and easy indication of what's in their food. So, let's have no more ifs and buts from the food industry. Just make it happen."

For further information on FPH position on food labelling and interviews with Professor Alan Maryon-Davis, please contact Suvi Kingsley either on 020 7935 3115 or 07939 897448.

ENDS

Notes to editors

  1. 'Comprehension and use of UK nutrition signpost labelling schemes' is an independent study commissioned by the Food Standards Agency to evaluate front of pack labelling schemes in the UK market. The key conclusions of the study are that a) the coexistence of a range of label formats in the marketplace causes difficulties for shoppers and that standardising to just one label format would enhance use and comprehension of front of pack labels; and b) that the strongest front of pack labels are those which combine text (high, medium, low) traffic light colours and %GDA information. The details are available on the Food Standards Agency website www.food.gov.uk
  2. Faculty of Public Health (FPH) is the leading professional body for public health specialists in the UK. It aims to promote and protect the health of the population, and improve health services, by maintaining professional and educational standards, advocating on key public health issues, and providing practical information and guidance for public health professionals. www.fph.org.uk

 

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