Free Access | 2024-04-12

Is the adoption of front-of-pack labelling for food products legally and politically feasible for Uganda?

Authors/Editors: Madina M. Guloba (PhD) ,  Blessing Atwine ,  Mary Kajumba Muhuruzi

Abstract:

Unhealthy diets are a primary cause of overweight, obesity, and diet-related Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), a significant cause of death worldwide. In Uganda, there has been a steady increase in the prevalence of overweight and obesity of 3–4 percent between 2011 and 2016, as reported by the Demographic Health Surveys. The World Health Organization recommends Front-of-pack (FoP) labelling on foods and beverages to help consumers make healthier choices. Although Uganda has not yet adopted this intervention, findings reveal a high likelihood of the intervention buy-in from most Ministries and government institutions if the food element of the Food and Drug Act (1964) is implemented, the political will that translates into budgets and UNBS is strengthened to enforce FoP labelling.