By The Green Post
ISLAMABAD — Health specialists are urging policymakers to accelerate the introduction of front-of-pack warning labels (FOPWLs) as Pakistan continues to face a rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). NCDs—including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, cancer, and other chronic conditions—account for a significant share of premature deaths in the country and place growing pressure on healthcare resources.
NCD burden linked to unhealthy dietary patterns
Experts note that diets high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats are major contributors to Pakistan’s escalating NCD rates. They point to global research, including a recent study published in
The Lancet, which found that clear and mandatory warning labels help consumers identify unhealthy products and reduce the intake of ultra-processed foods.
Advocates support mandatory front-of-pack warning labels
Civil society groups such as the Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) and Heartfile, working with the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, are supporting efforts to introduce mandatory FOPWLs on ultra-processed products. They argue that such labeling would assist consumers in making more informed food choices, particularly children and low-income populations who face higher exposure to aggressive marketing.
Call for timely policy action to address NCD trends
Sanaullah Ghumman, General Secretary of PANAH, said the measure should be expedited in light of the mounting evidence on its effectiveness. He stated that delaying implementation could hinder efforts to reduce preventable diseases and improve long-term public health outcomes.
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