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Nutrition labelling scheme makes healthier food choices easier (with photos)

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The new nutrition labelling scheme which will come into effect on July 1 next year would help consumers make healthier and suitable food choices, the Secretary for Food and Health, Dr York Chow, said today (July 11).

Speaking at the opening ceremony of Food Safety Day 2009, Dr Chow said, "The scheme requires prepackaged food to label energy and seven specified nutrients - protein, carbohydrates, total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sodium and sugars. It also regulates nutrition claims.

"We hope that by introducing the scheme, we are not only encouraging food producers and suppliers to provide more food items that meet nutritional requirements but also enabling the public to make use of the information on nutrition labels to maintain a healthy diet.

"For the new scheme to bring its benefits into full play, a concerted publicity and promotional programme is indispensable."

Dr Chow commended members of the Task Force on Nutrition Labelling Education for their invaluable views and support on the publicity and promotion of nutrition labelling.

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department launched a publicity and education campaign on nutrition labelling on March 12.

On the same day, a TV and a radio announcement in public interest (API) bearing the punchline ��Turn and look for healthier food choices" was released, followed by roving exhibitions and health talks.

Co-organised by the CFS and Radio Television Hong Kong Radio 1, today's event adopted nutrition labelling as its theme and featured a variety show, an exhibition and game booths.

Also officiating at the opening ceremony were Chairman of the Legislative Council Panel on Food Safety and Environmental Hygiene Mr Fred Li and vice-chairman Mr Wong Yung-kan; the Director of Food and Environmental Hygiene, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing; the Controller of the CFS, Dr Constance Chan; the Head, Chinese Programme Service, RTHK, Mr Philip Chow; Chairman, Expert Committee on Food Safety, Prof Kwan Hoi-shan, and representatives of members of the Task Force on Nutrition Labelling Education.


Ends/Saturday, July 11, 2009
Issued at HKT 18:09

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(Photo 1), (Photo 2)

12 Apr 2019