The Minister of Health: "Revitalizing Sri Lanka: Transformative Changes in Food Labeling (Tea?) for Health and Wellness."

To propel Sri Lanka towards a healthier future, ensure sustainable food practices, and foster mindful eating habits for the well-being of generations to come, a transformative shift in our approach to food labeling is imperative. An impactful and cost-effective solution is the immediate implementation of mandatory 'Calorific Value' display on all edible items, spanning processed, locally grown, and imported foods and beverages.

This initiative's benefits extend beyond individual health to encompass broader societal advantages. By providing citizens with comprehensive information about the nutritional content of their food, we empower them to make informed decisions, addressing prevalent health concerns like diabetes and obesity. Aligned with our commitment to food conservation, understanding the caloric content promotes mindful consumption, contributing not only to personal well-being but also to the preservation of valuable resources.

Furthermore, the financial prudence of implementing this labeling requirement is evident. By reducing health issues associated with poor dietary choices, we simultaneously curtail government spending on healthcare, redirecting funds towards preventive measures. It is imperative to bolster the production of food scientists through universities, fostering collaboration with esteemed institutions such as the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI) and the Industrial Technology Institute (ITI). Strategic investment in provincial testing labs, supported by these institutions, will enforce the mandatory inclusion of Calorific Values on food labels.

The introduction of Calorific Values on food labels represents a low-cost, high-impact solution that cultivates a culture of informed consumption for a healthier and more resilient Sri Lanka. The minimal investment in testing labs is justified by substantial savings in healthcare costs and the overall well-being of our citizens.

The insights for this article were derived from Rashida Vapiwala, the Founder of LabelBlind®, who holds a PhD and specializes in Digitising Food Labelling with Artificial Intelligence.

Delving into the realm of food labeling, information extraction plays a pivotal role in deriving nutritional content or manufacturing processes from labels. This empowers consumers to make informed decisions based on their preferences, contributing to healthier lifestyles and aiding in the prevention of health issues.

The application of image recognition is valuable in identifying a brand's logo on food labels, particularly in detecting counterfeit products. Machine learning algorithms analyze product packaging, identifying irregularities that may indicate counterfeits. This capability safeguards consumer safety and brand reputation by enabling manufacturers and regulatory authorities to detect and remove counterfeit products from the market.

The trajectory of AI technologies, including sentiment analysis, information extraction, and image recognition, significantly impacts the food labeling industry. Manufacturers leverage these tools to ensure accurate and compliant labeling, empowering consumers to make discerning purchase decisions. Machine translation services and image recognition further enhance market reach and assure the authenticity of products.

The future of food labeling is intricately linked to the integration of advanced AI technologies. As AI progresses, we anticipate witnessing more sophisticated applications, leading to safer, transparent, and consumer-friendly food labeling practices. Embracing these technologies benefits manufacturers, consumers, and ensures the overall sustainability of the food industry.

In conclusion, while the practice of food labeling with nutritional information is not a novel concept, it becomes imperative for Sri Lanka to address its alarming prevalence of diabetes. The nation stands among the highest in the spread of this health concern, making it crucial to implement mandatory food labeling that includes information on calorific values. This step is not just a regulatory measure; rather, it is a fundamental shift in viewing food as a form of medicine rather than a potential vice.

Recognizing the profound impact of dietary choices on public health, mandatory disclosure of calorific values on food labels can serve as a powerful tool in fostering awareness and encouraging healthier lifestyles. By equipping consumers with information about the nutritional content of their food, we empower them to make informed decisions, contributing to the prevention of diabetes and other health issues.

In essence, this shift in perspective emphasizes the role of food not only as a source of sustenance but as a means to promote well-being. As Sri Lanka embarks on this journey towards mandatory calorific value labeling, it signifies a commitment to a healthier and more informed society, where food is seen as a crucial element in the pursuit of optimal health rather than a potential risk factor for diseases like diabetes.

Lalin I De Silva, former Senior Planter, Agricultural Advisor / Consultant, Sectrary General of Ceylon Planters Society, Editor of Ceylon Planters Society Bulletin, freelance journalist 

By. Lalin I De Silva