The food industry has had enough time to prepare for new Malaysian rules on nutrition labelling, due to come in on 1 July, says health minister Dr Chua Soi Lek.
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“Like any new regulation, there will be some resistance initially. However, if consumers avoid buying food items which do not have labels on nutritional value, the industry will be forced to make adjustments,” he said, according to the New Straits Times newspaper. The Regulations on Nutrition Labelling and Claims were gazetted on 31 March 2003.
“The regulation is there and we have given the food industry enough time to adjust and understand it. From July 1, they will have no more excuses,” Dr Chua said.
The regulation requires the food industry to label and declare the energy, carbohydrate, protein and fat contents of certain food groups commonly consumed by Malaysians, such as cereals, milk and bread. Declaration on vitamins, minerals and cholesterol may also be included.
It also covers provisions on nutrient claims and this includes prohibiting health claims such as “calcium prevents osteoporosis”.
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By GlobalDataHowever, claims that describe the physiological role of a particular nutrient in growth and normal body functions, such as “calcium aids in the development of strong bones and teeth” are allowed.
Dr Chua was speaking to reporters after officiating the 33rd Session of the Codex Committee on Food Labelling at the Sutera Harbour Resort.
Earlier in his speech, Dr Chua said the need for food labels should not be underestimated.
“Food labels are useful for consumers wanting to avoid or reduce certain elements like fat or sodium in their diet and for those who want to maximise other elements like fibre,” he said.
“I am aware that changes in food labels to provide more information will impose additional costs to producers, manufacturers, retailers and ultimately, consumers. However, these added costs must be compared to savings through improved health that consumers are expected to gain by using this information.”
“Potential long-term savings in health costs and gains in longevity would outweigh the added costs.”
