How food packaging labelling can help state fight chronic diseases

Simply listing nutrition facts is not enough; labels must be clear, simple, and easily understood if they are to truly influence consumer choices. [iStockphoto]

Sub-Saharan Africa is undergoing an epidemiological shift, with a notable rise in chronic Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). These diseases, though challenging to define, are commonly linked to four behavioural risk factors: tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and physical inactivity.

Together, these factors drive the prevalence of cardiovascular disease, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes-conditions responsible for nearly 80 per cent of global deaths.