Press Releases
Nutrition labelling scheme makes healthier food choices easier (with photos)
The new nutrition labelling scheme which will come into effect on July 1
next year would help consumers make healthier and suitable food choices, the
Secretary for Food and Health, Dr York Chow, said today (July 11).
Speaking at the opening ceremony of Food Safety Day 2009, Dr Chow said, "The
scheme requires prepackaged food to label energy and seven specified
nutrients - protein, carbohydrates, total fat, saturated fat, trans fat,
sodium and sugars. It also regulates nutrition claims.
"We hope that by introducing the scheme, we are not only encouraging food
producers and suppliers to provide more food items that meet nutritional
requirements but also enabling the public to make use of the information on
nutrition labels to maintain a healthy diet.
"For the new scheme to bring its benefits into full play, a concerted
publicity and promotional programme is indispensable."
Dr Chow commended members of the Task Force on Nutrition Labelling Education
for their invaluable views and support on the publicity and promotion of
nutrition labelling.
The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene
Department launched a publicity and education campaign on nutrition
labelling on March 12.
On the same day, a TV and a radio announcement in public interest (API)
bearing the punchline ��Turn and look for healthier food choices" was
released, followed by roving exhibitions and health talks.
Co-organised by the CFS and Radio Television Hong Kong Radio 1, today's
event adopted nutrition labelling as its theme and featured a variety show,
an exhibition and game booths.
Also officiating at the opening ceremony were Chairman of the Legislative
Council Panel on Food Safety and Environmental Hygiene Mr Fred Li and
vice-chairman Mr Wong Yung-kan; the Director of Food and Environmental
Hygiene, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing; the Controller of the CFS, Dr Constance Chan;
the Head, Chinese Programme Service, RTHK, Mr Philip Chow; Chairman, Expert
Committee on Food Safety, Prof Kwan Hoi-shan, and representatives of members
of the Task Force on Nutrition Labelling Education.
Ends/Saturday, July 11, 2009
Issued at HKT 18:09
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