City Desk
Islamabad: The Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH), in collaboration with Iqra University, held an awareness session to engage young people in advocating mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWLs) on unhealthy ultra-processed foods, amid a rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Pakistan.
PANAH General Secretary Sana Ullah Ghumman said NCDs such as diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease account for roughly 60% of deaths in the country. He linked the crisis to heavy consumption of ultra-processed foods high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats, and urged the government to make FOPWLs mandatory, citing Chile and Mexico as examples. He said clear labels would let families make informed food choices.
Executive Member Abdul Hafeez encouraged students to become ambassadors of change through social media, university platforms and community engagement. Iqra University Assistant Professor Ms. Maria praised PANAH’s efforts to involve educational institutions.
Students took part through presentations, a quiz and discussions. PANAH reiterated its call for immediate enactment and effective implementation of mandatory FOPWLs.
