New front-of-pack labelling system for UK foods

The government has announced that a new front-of-pack labelling system is to be implemented in the UK.

Printed on the label is nutritional information detailing fat, saturates, sugars and salt levels – colour coded to indicate how low, medium or high they are – along with details pertaining to energy values and serving count.

Whilst not mandatory, it is estimated that approximately 60% of foods will now carry the label, and UK’s major supermarkets – namely Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose and Asda – have all stated that they will feature the label on their own products.

Industry leaders have been striving for such a label for the best part of ten years, but had struggled to agree on its exact design.

Health groups have already offered their support for the concept and believe that it will help tackle obesity levels.