What is Front-of-Package Labeling? Opinions from experts in Central America

Author: Costa Rica Saludable

February 2024 – Educational and informational material that answers frequently asked questions about front-of-package warning labeling with black octagonal seals. A study in Costa Rica found that implementing the octagonal warning system can double consumers’ ability to choose less harmful products and triple their ability to identify the healthiest option, thus contributing to combating obesity and other diseases related to unhealthy eating. There are studies in the region with evidence supporting octagonal labels for making informed healthy decisions to avoid excess sugars, saturated fats, sodium, and trans fats.

Experts who provide insights include Fernanda Kroker, Coordinator of the INCAP Research Center; Fiorella Espinoza, Nutrition Officer at UNICEF; Fabio Gomes, Regional Nutrition Advisor at PAHO/WHO; Laura Mora, Country Coordinator at Global Health Advocacy Incubator; Israel Ríos, Nutrition Officer at the UN FAO; Joaquín Barnoya, Coordinator of Healthy Guatemala; Danilo Pérez, Director of CDC El Salvador; and José Renán De León Cáseres, Director of the Nutrition Center for Central America and Panama.

The exchange of information in the region is discussed. The choice of mothers in the case of Mexico and children is also mentioned, though the country of the study is not clarified in this instance. The topic of ultra-processed foods, obesity, and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the region is addressed. Regarding job losses, the representative from the Consumer Center explained the industry’s conversion efforts with sugary beverages in Chile to reduce sugar content. A call is made for Central American countries to unite in promoting the health and well-being of their populations through the implementation of front-of-package warning labeling.