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WHF Front-of-Pack Labelling Policy Brief

What are processed foods?

Processed foods are manufactured by adding fats, oils, sugars, salt, and other culinary ingredients to minimally processed foods to make them more durable and usually more palatable. These types of foods include simple breads and cheeses; salted and cured meats, and seafood; and preserved fruits, legumes, and vegetables.

Ultra-processed food and drink products are industrial formulations manufactured from substances derived from foods or synthesized from other organic sources. In their current forms, they are inventions of modern industrial food science and technology. Most of these products contain little or no whole food. They are ready-to-consume or ready-to heat, and thus require little or no culinary preparation.

What is the WHF Front-of-Pack (FOPL) Policy Brief?

The WHF FOPL Policy Brief presents a concise summary of information that can help readers understand and make informed decisions about FOPL policies. It gives an objective summary of relevant research, suggests possible policy options and argues for courses of action that governments should take when considering FOPL systems as part of a larger package of policies to create healthy, empowering food environments in their country.

Who is it for?

This policy brief has been created for all those who have a stake in the issue of Front of Pack Labelling: the cardiovascular and health community, policymakers and the media.

Why do we need it?

A considerable body of research highlights the large and significant impact of consuming ultraprocessed foods on the major NCDs, including obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.  The main message to consumer must be to reduce consumption of these unhealthy products and focus on less processed food and drink. Yet, when faced with many different products and conflicting claims, consumers need help.  FOPL systems support consumers in making better decisions and governments have many options when selecting a FOPL system that is best for their population. The WHF policy brief shed lights on options and will help you to understand the most important guiding principles for developing effective front-of-pack labelling systems.

How can we use it?

If you would like to learn more about existing FOPL global policies, the latest published evidence on this subject, the latest trends and the consequences of different possible approaches – the WHF FOPL Policy Brief will give you all the information you need to make a smart and well-informed decision about how to approach the development of an FOPL system in your country.

Visit worldheart.org/FOPL to learn more.

Download the FOPL Policy Brief