Report: ANI Correspondent:
KARACHI — Health and nutrition experts have called for the immediate implementation of mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWLs) to help consumers make healthier food choices and address the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in Pakistan.
The call was made during a World Heart Day awareness session and walk organized by the Youth Club of Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) at the University of Karachi.
Speakers highlighted the rising prevalence of diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and other NCDs, linking unhealthy diets and excessive consumption of foods high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats to increasing health risks.
PSQCA Director Standardization Gul Sanober emphasized the importance of clear and standardized food labelling, while Health and Nutrition Expert Munawar Hussain said FOPWLs can help consumers quickly identify products containing excessive amounts of critical nutrients.
PANAH General Secretary Sana Ullah Ghumman urged the Federal Government and provincial authorities to expedite implementation and enforcement of mandatory FOPWLs, stressing the need for coordinated efforts to promote healthier food environments.
The session was followed by an awareness walk at the University of Karachi, where students and participants highlighted the importance of healthy eating, heart health and NCD prevention.
