Karachi, October 1, 2026 (Nosheen): Experts at a World Heart Day awareness session organized by the Youth Club of Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) at the University of Karachi called for the immediate implementation of mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWLs) to help consumers make healthier food choices and prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
The speakers highlighted the growing burden of diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and other NCDs in Pakistan, linking unhealthy diets and excessive consumption of foods high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats to rising health risks.Experts said clear and simple warning labels can help consumers quickly identify products containing excessive amounts of critical nutrients without requiring detailed nutritional knowledge. They stressed the importance of effective food standards, consumer information and coordinated action by government institutions and relevant stakeholders.PANAH General Secretary Sana Ullah Ghumman urged the federal and provincial authorities to expedite implementation and enforcement of mandatory FOPWLs, emphasizing the need to protect children and young people from diet-related diseases.The session was followed by an awareness walk at the University of Karachi, where students and participants raised awareness about healthy eating, heart health and NCD prevention.