Philippines pushes for clearer, science-backed food labels to fight obesity

A key discussion on improving food labels took place in the Philippines earlier this month. Mondelēz International, alongside a partner organisation, hosted the Think Tank for Effective Front-of-Pack Labels on May 8, 2025. The event focused on making nutrition information clearer for consumers to tackle rising health concerns like obesity and diet-related illnesses. Experts at the event stressed the need for front-of-pack labels (FOPLs) that are easy to understand and backed by science. Alvin Manalansan, Vice President of the Philippine Stakeholders for Nutrition and Dietetics (PSND), Inc., argued that labels must be evidence-based and simple enough for the general public to grasp.

Matt Kovac, Chief Executive Officer of Food Industry Asia, highlighted how FOPLs can promote transparency and nudge consumers toward healthier food choices. Meanwhile, Dr. Mario Capanzana, Executive Director of the Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers, reinforced that labels should reflect current nutritional challenges and be grounded in research. The discussion also covered the different types of FOPLs in use, such as Guideline Daily Amount (GDA), Traffic Light/Nutrigrade, Health Star Rating, and Warning Labels. Participants agreed that for these labels to work, they must be visible, inclusive, and adaptable across various food categories. The long-term success of FOPLs, they noted, depends on how well the message is delivered, measured, and maintained over time.

The event brought together industry leaders to refine food labelling standards in the Philippines. Clearer, science-backed FOPLs could help consumers make better dietary decisions. Organisers aim for these changes to contribute to reducing obesity and improving public health in the long run.