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Food Standards Agency

Sunday 21 March 2010

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Front-of-pack (FOP) nutrition labelling

The Agency recommends a consistent approach to front-of-pack (FOP) nutrition labelling that provides 'at a glance' information on labels about the nutritional content of foods through the use of traffic light colours.

To underpin these recommendations, a series of consumer research projects were undertaken to explore people's understanding of and preferences for a range of labelling concepts. FOP labels aim to make it easier for people to choose a healthy diet.

Related links

Front-of-Pack nutrition labelling for pre-packed foods sold through retail outlets in the UK Consultation closes – 5 November 2009

More advice from our eatwell website

(External) Traffic light labelling

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Technical guidance

This is Issue 2 of the technical guidance for the Agency's front-of-pack (FOP) nutritional labelling approach.

Front-of-pack (FOP) nutrition labelling policy review

The Agency is reviewing its existing recommendations on front-of-pack (FOP) nutrition labelling, in light of the findings of an independent evaluation of existing FOP nutrition labelling schemes, outcomes from citizens' forums, and discussions with food businesses and consumers.

Independent signpost evaluation study

At its meeting on 9 March 2006, the Agency's Board agreed that it would be important to assess independently the impact of its recommended approach to front-of-pack (FOP) signpost labelling, and other FOP key nutrient schemes that are in use, on consumer behaviour.

Retailers, manufacturers, importers/suppliers and service providers that use front-of-pack labelling with traffic lights

A number of large retailers, many manufacturers and some service providers now use the Food Standards Agency's recommended approach to front-of-pack (FOP) nutrition labelling.

Supporters of FSA's approach to front-of-pack labelling

A large number of consumer, health, medical and other groups support the FSA's recommended approach to front-of-pack (FOP) nutrition labelling incorporating traffic lights. The supporters range from Netmums to the Royal College of Physicians.

Development of front-of-pack nutrition labelling

The Agency carried out a series of consumer research projects to explore people's understanding of and preferences for a range of different labelling concepts to develop the Agency’s approach to front-of-pack nutrition labelling. Details of the work that was carried out can be found in this section.

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