To provide Filipino consumers proper knowledge on the food they eat, Sen. Raffy Tulfo filed a bill mandating the use of a health rating system on the labels of packaged food products.
Tulfo said this will be in addition to the standard nutrition facts stated on the label.
In filing Senate Bill (SB) No. 1684, Tulfo gave assurance the health rating will help save the consumers from life-threatening diseases.
“The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted the importance of health and wellness,” the senator said.
This includes comprehensive knowledge of the food individuals consume. Undeniably, he noted that people who maintain a healthy diet will have a lower risk of serious illnesses and enjoy a better quality of life.
The Department of Health (DOH) said the leading cause of death in the Philippines are diseases of the heart, vascular system, and respiratory system, along with malignant cancers, and diabetes.
Earlier, Tulfo aired concerns about the high level of sodium in instant noodles and canned sardines, which are popular among the poor. Macon Ramos-Araneta
The Health Rating System measures the overall nutritional profile of packaged food products from one “1” (the least nutritious) to five “5” (the most nutritious).
The said rating system is calculated based on the total Energy or Kilojoules, saturated fat, sodium, sugar content and fiber.
The Health Rating System will be placed at the front of the packaged food product.
The packaged food product’s nutrient content will be shown below or beside the Health Rating.