Indonesia orders food companies to label products high in sugar, salt, fat

In a significant move to tackle the growing public health crisis of obesity, Indonesia is set to introduce a mandatory "nutri-level" labeling system for food and beverage products. This initiative, detailed in a new health ministry decree, will require companies to apply color-coded labels – red for high sugar, salt, and fat content, and green for low – within two years. This proactive measure reflects Indonesia's commitment to safeguarding the health of its 280 million citizens, particularly in light of alarming data showing a doubling of obesity rates over the past decade and warnings from UNICEF about the prevalence of obesity among children.

The introduction of this system, which has precedents in over 40 countries including Singapore, is a crucial step towards empowering consumers to make healthier choices. While the decree does not specify sanctions for non-compliance, the mandatory nature of the labels underscores the government's seriousness in addressing diet-related health risks. The move also comes after lobbying efforts from both the United States and domestic manufacturers, highlighting the complex interplay of public health goals and industry interests. This policy positions Indonesia as a proactive nation in public health, aiming to curb the long-term impact of unhealthy diets on its population.

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Indonesia will require food and beverage companies to apply colour-graded labels for products high in salt, sugar, and fat in two years in a bid to combat obesity and other health risks, according to a new health ministry decree seen by Reuters.