Accra:Experts at a webinar emphasized the significance of introducing simple, clear, and mandatory warning-based Front-of-Package Labeling (FOPL) on food packets to enhance public health.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the webinar addressed concerns over the growing consumption of ultra-processed packaged foods in Bangladesh, which increases the risk of diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The event, titled "Front-of-Pack Warning Labels on Ultra-Processed Foods Progress, Barriers and the Way Forward," was organized by the research and advocacy organization PROGGA with support from the Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI) in anticipation of World Food Day 2026.
The webinar, chaired by PROGGA's Executive Director ABM Zubair and moderated by Coordinator Mashiat Abedin, featured a keynote presentation by Programme Officer Shabnam Mostofa. Participants included representatives from civil society organizations, NGOs, youth groups, professionals, relevant stakeholders, and journalists from across the country, including Rangpur.
Experts highlighted that the consumption of ultra-processed foods high in salt, sugar, and saturated fats is rising alarmingly among all age groups in Bangladesh. Research indicates that 97 percent of the population consumes these foods at least once a week. Nutrition tables on the back of food packages are often complex, making it difficult for consumers to choose healthier options.
To combat this issue, the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (BFSA) has drafted regulations for FOPL, currently awaiting approval from the Ministry of Food. Professor Dr. Mohammad Shoeb from the BFSA expressed hope that the regulation would soon be gazetted.
Public health expert Dr. Mohammad Mushtuq Husain noted that NCDs cause nearly 71 percent of total deaths in Bangladesh, with unhealthy diets being a significant factor. He emphasized that mandatory FOPL could help address diet-related NCDs.
Abu Ahmed Shamim, Associate Scientist at BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, stated that warning-based FOPL is the most effective way to inform consumers about the nutritional quality and health risks of packaged foods. Muhammad Ruhul Quddus, Bangladesh Country Lead of GHAI, added that implementing FOPL would reduce healthcare costs and support progress toward achieving SDG 3.4.
The webinar also featured contributions from M Shamsuddin Ahmed, Chief Reporter of the Daily Ittefaq, Samina Israt, Programme Officer (Diet-Related Risk Factors) at the World Health Organization, and Aminul Islam Sujon, Consultant at Vital Strategies.