Fighting For Health: The Caribbean’s Battle For Front-Of-Package Warning Labels

It has been five years since the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) began discussions on implementing a front-of-package label (FOPL) standard for the food and beverage sector as a measure to address the growing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) epidemic in the region. However, the conflict between public health and the food industry has impeded progress in tackling the primary cause of death in the region.

The Caribbean is currently facing significant challenges as the prevalence of overweight and obesity among young people continues to rise, affecting up to 36% of individuals between the ages of 5 and 19. The increase in overweight and obesity among children and adolescents has more than doubled and even tripled in various countries within the region, largely attributed to urbanization and unhealthy food environments. This has resulted in a surge in NCDs, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and hypertension.

NCDs have had a significant impact on the region’s economies and societies, accounting for 83% of annual deaths in the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/ World Health Organization (WHO) Region of Americas. Furthermore, the Caribbean has the highest rates of NCD-associated morbidity and premature mortality in the Americas.

Despite mounting evidence of the link between consuming foods high in fats, salts, and sugars and the development of NCDs, progress towards implementing front-of-package warning labels has been met with resistance from the food industry. The recommended black-and-white Octagonal Warning Label (OWL) standard, scientifically backed by PAHO, The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), and the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health, is considered the most suitable approach for the region.

While global adoption of “high in” octagonal warning labels has been successful in countries such as Mexico, Peru, Chile, Argentina, Uraguay, Colombia, and Venezuela, the Caribbean continues to face challenges in adopting this standard due to industry resistance. Concerns have been raised regarding industry interference in the decision-making process, leading to delays and dissent among CARICOM member states.

The Caribbean Private Sector Organization (CPSO), representing the food and beverage industry, has advocated for a hybrid FOPL model that integrates various global standards, citing potential trade and manufacturing implications as a result of the octagonal approach. However, public health advocates argue that the hybrid model would generate confusion among consumers, undermining the goal of curbing NCDs.

The influence of the private sector in shaping health policies and standards has raised concerns about prioritizing health objectives and managing conflicts of interest. Efforts to engage with the private sector while minimizing industry pressures have become increasingly vital, especially in light of the detrimental impact of NCDs on the region.

Moving forward, the establishment of transparent decision-making processes, independent of industry pressures, is crucial for implementing the octagonal standard. By prioritizing the health of the region’s population over industry concerns, the adoption of front-of-package warning labels plays a pivotal role in steering the Caribbean towards a healthier future.