Nutrition Labelling Scheme smoothly implemented in its first year

As at June 24, the Centre for Food Safety had checked more than 16 200 prepackaged food products, with an overall Nutrition Labelling Scheme compliance rate of 99.3 %.

"While the NL Scheme enables consumers to make informed food choices, it encourages the food trade to apply sound nutrition principles in the formulation of foods," said Secretary for Food and Health Dr York Chow. 

"To reap the benefits of the scheme, the CFS launched a three-year Publicity and Education Campaign in 2008. Consumers have become increasingly aware of the importance of making use of the NL information in making healthier food choices," he added.

According to a telephone survey conducted by the Bauhinia Foundation Research Centre last month, nearly 80 per cent of over 1,000 interviewees indicated that implementation of the NL Scheme and regulation of nutrient claims had helped them make healthierfood choices.

Over 50 per cent of the interviewees said the NL Scheme had boosted their confidence in the nutrient information or claims on prepackaged food.

Dr Chow said emphasis has been placed on youth participation in executing the NL publicity strategy.