Logo to help you choose healthier food

STar: JOHOR BARU: Consumers will find it easier to eat healthier soon with the launch of the “Healthier Food Choices” logo.
Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said that the public should be able to spot the logo on food packaging in stores in three to four months.
To be allowed to sport the logo, food products must meet ministry requirements including having a lower sugar, fat and salt content.
Dr Chua said the initiative was meant to combat the trend towards overweight and obese Malaysians.
“Since 1991, the ministry has embarked on a Healthy Lifestyle campaign. There is increasing awareness but it is not being put into action, in terms of exercise, in terms of consumption of food,” he said.
He said the ministry has held discussions with manufacturers such as Nestle and Dutch Lady who have agreed in principle to the move.
“Food manufacturers can play a role to help the ministry. If we can reduce the sugar, fat and salt content, we can produce food that can be branded as a 'Healthier Food Choice',” he said, adding that the manufacturers have until June to submit their application to the ministry.
A technical committee will then analyse the food content to ascertain if they meet the requirements.