Indonesia has started to implement front-of-pack Nutri-Level labelling system, as the government steps up efforts to curb rising cases of diabetes, obesity and other health-related issues.
The Nutri-Level system classifies food and drink products into 4 categories namely A B, C, and D, based on their sugar, salt and fat content.
The policy was formalised in April in a decree from the Health Ministry which called for nutrition labels and health messages to be included on RTE food and beverage products. It will start first with beverages and then gradually expand to food products.
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said excessive consumption of sugar, salt and fat is a key driver of both mortality rates and rising healthcare costs, underscoring the urgency of improving dietary habits. As such, clear information is needed so that consumers can easily choose RTE food that suit their nutritional needs.
There will also be a transition period of 1-2 years which will allow companies to adapt before the rules become mandatory. As of now, the ministry will push on voluntary compliance, as the industry will also need to face rising concerns over packaging costs.
Latest government statistics showed that approximately 73% of deaths in Indonesia are linked to non-communicable diseases such as stroke, cardiovascular diseases and kidney problems, and this is slightly higher than global average.
