#BTEditorial – Not just business; labels better for health

In the face of a growing non-communicable disease (NCD) epidemic that has been sweeping the land and most of the Caribbean, it is time for Barbados to stand up for the health of its people. 

The recent CARICOM Impact Assessment (CIA) study on Front of Package Nutritional Labels (FoPNL) has provided invaluable insights into our dietary landscape and beckons us towards a healthier future. This study is a wake-up call that demands our immediate attention and action.

One revelation from the study is that Barbados imports a significant percentage of products displaying the UK Traffic Light warning system, a clear indication of the impact of international front-of-package labelling on our choices. While these global labelling schemes prove effective, it is baffling that the Barbadian private sector is resisting the embrace of the regional FoPNL mechanism.

Nonetheless, according to the study, while Barbados leads the region in these particular imports, this only amounts to four per cent of the total.

The resistance from our local industries as represented by the Barbados Private Sector Agency (BPSA) masks their concerns about production and profitability. However, we urge them to view this as an opportunity rather than an obstacle. Rather than opposing change, the private sector should concentrate its efforts on adapting its production practices to reduce the excessive levels of sugar and salt in food and drink, catering to the demand for healthier options.

The long-term consequences of maintaining the status quo far outweigh any potential short-term losses that our private sector may face by adjusting their formulations. 

As the health crisis deepens, Barbadian consumers are increasingly opting for healthier imported products that adhere to US and UK standards. Our local industries are at risk of losing not just market share but also consumer trust. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious, making choices that reflect their awareness of the risks associated with excessive sugar and salt consumption.

While international standards can guide us towards healthier choices, we must also address our unique needs and dietary habits through a locally developed FoPNL scheme. This empowers Barbados to set its own health standards, customised to our specific requirements and challenges.

In the battle against NCDs, Barbados must take a bold step forward and embrace the CARICOM FoPNL mechanism. We must encourage our private sector to invest in healthier formulations and stand in solidarity with the health and well-being of our citizens. It is high time we recognise that good health is a priceless asset that far outweighs any short-term profits. The responsibility lies with our local industries to play a pivotal role in our journey towards a healthier Barbados.

Let us seize this moment to prioritise the health of our nation and make a change that will benefit us all in the long run. It is not just a matter of business; it is a matter of life and well-being.