GAND moves to create food label literacy in Ghana
As part of activities to mark this year’s Nutrition Month, Ghana Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (GAND) is leading a month-long campaign under the theme, “Behind Every Food Label Lies a Story — Make Yours a Healthy One.”
The initiative underscores the Academy’s commitment to raising awareness and improving food label literacy across the country — a crucial step in promoting long-term public health.
In an era where pre-packaged foods dominate the market, GAND is intensifying education on the health risks posed by hidden levels of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, often masked in technical label jargon.
The campaign seeks to empower consumers to make informed choices by decoding these labels.
Evidence from the World Health Organisation (WHO) Africa shows that countries implementing front-of-pack labelling policies have seen a 15–20% drop in the purchase of unhealthy foods. However, in Ghana, food label literacy remains low.
A 2023 University of Ghana survey revealed that while 70% of pre-packaged foods are high in sodium, sugar, or saturated fats, only 22% of consumers check food labels regularly, and less than 15% understand what they mean.
To help bridge this gap, GAND has outlined a wide range of activities for the month. These include the daily release of flyers offering insights into food labels and healthier alternatives, as well as informative discussions on television and radio to enhance public understanding.
Webinars will also be held to provide practical guidance on how to apply label knowledge in everyday life, alongside short educational videos and jingles circulating on social media and radio.
Nutritionists and dietitians will also be taking education directly into communities and healthcare facilities nationwide, offering on-the-spot guidance to members of the public on how to read and interpret food labels.
On campuses, special stands will be set up to engage students in direct demonstrations, while nutrition students will take to the streets with interactive quizzes designed to boost awareness and participation.
