Front of pack nutrition labelling for pre-packed foods - Cancer ...

We welcome your views on the range of foods to which an integrated FOP labelshould be applied, including suggestions for a limited number of exemptions(paragraph 20).We are concerned about the list of exemptions contained on page 7 and 8 of theconsultation document and would welcome further information about some of thecategories. In particular we would welcome information about the definition of foodssold in packages with small surface areas. We are concerned that this couldpotentially include foods which are energy dense or contain a high salt content.We are also concerned that bacon and ham are included in the list of exemptions asthese foods can be high in salt content. There is a clear link between processed meatand bowel cancer. Some bacon and ham products are high in salt content andCancer Research UK recommends that they should not be included in theexemptions category.We are also concerned that some dairy products are included in the exemptionscategory as some yoghurts can be high in fat. Consumers have also stated that theyare particularly confused about the composition of yoghurt products as they cansometimes contain high levels of saturated fat and calories and also because someproducts are marketed and promoted as being good for digestive health.We would welcome further information about what would be included in the categoryentitled ‘fresh and minimally processed fruits’ and in particular there needs to be aclear definition of ‘minimally processed fruits’. Particular caution needs to beexercised around fruit juice drinks as these can sometimes contain high levels ofsugar. There is clear evidence about the links between sugary drinks and obesity andit is because of this that we would welcome further information about the types offood which would be included in this category.Question 2:We welcome your views on the proposal for including calories in an integratedFOP label (paragraph 27), and that interpretive elements should not beincluded.Obesity is the leading cancer risk factor for non smokers. We therefore believe thatevery effort should be taken to help the population prevent obesity and to managethe condition where necessary and we agree with the proposal for including caloriesin an integrated FOP label.Consumers seek and use calorie information about food products where it isavailable. The provision of information about calories can also help motivate people’sinterest if they are not currently aware of calorie values and this information shouldbe clear, consistent and understandable.We agree that interpretive elements should not be included as guideline dailyamounts as energy cannot apply to the broad range of consumers. For example,including interpretive elements of GDA for energy for adults on the front of breakfastcereals could potentially be confusing and misleading for other consumers of thattype of food such as children and young people.Question 4:Do you agree with the proposed approach to improve communication andunderstanding of saturated fats in an integrated FOP label (paragraph 34)? Ifnot why not?