| The Healthy Living Alliance (HEALA) is calling on the South African government to ratify regulations that make it mandatory for foods high in salt, sugar and saturated fat to carry a clear warning label on the front of packages. This, so that consumers can be empowered to make informed, and healthier decisions when buying food – especially when trying to identify healthier options. Shockingly, low-income South African adults consume, on average, 40% of their calories from ultra-processed products, according to a study published in Public Health Nutrition. Experts are clear on the dangers of eating ultra-processed foods. Two large European studies published in The BMJ Journal found direct links between lengthened exposure to ultra-processed foods and heart disease deaths, poor mental health, obesity and diabetes. The National Department of Health (NdoH) has had almost two years to ratify the R3337 (formally referred to as the Draft Regulation Relating to Labelling and Advertising of Foodstuffs published by the South African National Department of Health on April 21, 2023). This set of regulations is aimed at introducing significant changes to how food products are labelled and advertised – particularly focusing on front-of-pack warning labels, marketing restrictions aimed at protecting children, and stricter guidelines for health-related claims. South Africans have been waiting since the conclusion of the public consultation process on September 21, 2023. Time is up, our health is on a steady decline, and we are vulnerable to predatory food manufacturers that prioritise profit over the wellness of the masses. HEALA will be embarking on roadshows in Gauteng, Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal to raise awareness on the importance of font-of-package warning labels. We are inviting all South Africans to add their voice to the call for the National Department of Health (NdoH) to protect our health. Each day without these regulations is a denial of vulnerable consumers’ rights to know what they are putting in their bodies. “Some packaged foods put us at risk of dangerous, life-altering illnesses. South Africans have the right to understand the ingredients in the food they eat.For many consumers, back-of-pack labels are complicated and difficult to read, making it nearly impossible for people to choose healthier alternatives. Regulations will make it easier for us to readily identify foods that are bad for our health and choose better for ourselves. We urgently need easy-to-read warning labels that highlight the dangerous contents in some of these packaged foods,” urges HEALA CEO Nzama Mbalati. Sign petition at heala.org Roadshow Dates Pretoria, Gauteng: 6 and 7August 2025 Atlyn Shopping Mall, Khoza St, Atteridgeville, Giyani Limpopo: 12 and 13 August 2025 Masingita Mall, Giyani Durban, KZN: 18 and 19 August 2025 The Workshop, Durban CBD About HEALA: HEALA is a coalition of civil society organisations advocating for equitable access to affordable, nutritious food in South Africa by building a more just food system. SUPPLIED. |
