MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) expressed its support for a proposed calorie labeling policy in Quezon City, a move expected to help people to make healthier dietary decisions.
“This will enable Filipinos to make informed and healthy choices on what to eat,” the DOH said.
The local government of Quezon City has passed an ordinance mandating large and mid-sized restaurants to disclose calorie information for each food item on their menus. This policy is awaiting the signature of Mayor Joy Belmonte to take effect.
Public interest group ImagineLaw, which collaborated with the Quezon City government on this initiative, previously stated that calorie labeling is aimed at fostering a healthier food environment to combat obesity and diet-related noncommunicable diseases.
According to a 2019 survey conducted by the Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute, approximately 27 million Filipinos were classified as overweight or obese.
The World Health Organization has emphasized that the increase in obesity is predominantly influenced by current food environments, characterized by the growing availability, accessibility, affordability, and marketing of processed foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, sugars, or salt.
The Department of Health (DOH) has also encouraged the public to adopt a “balanced, well-moderated, and varied diet.”
“Limit processed foods and foods that are high in calories. Opt for healthier choices, partnered with sufficient physical activity,” the agency said.
