According to recent projections by the World Health Organization (WHO), Costa Rica is on a troubling trajectory to become the third-highest nation globally for rates of overweight and obesity within the next 37 years. This alarming forecast has led health authorities to classify the rising levels of obesity and overweight conditions as a public health epidemic.
In response to this critical situation, nutrition experts are advocating for the implementation of front-of-package labeling, a strategy endorsed by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). This labeling system is designed to be a straightforward, practical, and efficient way to inform consumers about the nutritional content of food products and influence healthier purchasing decisions.
The Case for Front-of-Package Labeling
Front-of-package labeling provides immediate visual cues that indicate high levels of unhealthy ingredients such as sodium, fats, or sugars. This form of labeling is considered an essential tool for consumers, empowering them to make informed choices that can lead to better health outcomes.
“Access to safe and healthy food is not just a necessity but a human right and a critical social determinant of health,” stated Emmanuel Bonilla, a surgeon at Metropolitan Hospital. Bonilla further explained the concepts of “food deserts”—areas with limited access to affordable nutritious food—and “food swamps,” where there is an abundance of food options high in calories but low in nutritional value.
Legal and Regulatory Challenges
Despite the recognized benefits of front-of-package labeling, the initiative has faced regulatory hurdles. Last year, the Ministry of Health issued a directive that required hiding front labeling on some imported foods, which led to a legal challenge. The Constitutional Chamber recently ruled that this directive should be annulled, affirming the need for visible health warnings on food products.
Impact on Public Health
Limited access to nutritious and affordable food contributes to food insecurity, which is closely linked to the rise in non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and mental health disorders. Front-of-package labeling is not just a tool for individual health but a public health strategy aimed at addressing these broader issues.
“While not foolproof, the simple, easy-to-identify icons on packaging provide clarity for consumers about the contents of their food, empowering them to make healthier choices,” noted Maria Bolaños, president of the Association of Nutrition Professionals. Bolaños emphasized that these labels offer updated, truthful, and scientifically-backed information on the nutrients that are present in high amounts in foods, serving as a critical warning to help consumers protect their health.
Moving Forward
As Costa Rica grapples with the escalating obesity epidemic, the implementation of front-of-package labeling stands out as a crucial intervention. By making nutritional information accessible and understandable, the country can foster an environment where healthy choices are easier to make, ultimately contributing to the prevention of obesity-related health issues.
The decision by the Constitutional Chamber to uphold the visibility of these labels marks a significant victory for public health advocacy. Moving forward, it will be essential for all stakeholders—government agencies, health professionals, and food manufacturers—to collaborate in promoting and refining these labeling practices to ensure they meet the needs of all Costa Ricans.
