Indonesia has launched a new front-of-pack labelling system called Nutri-Level to combat the rise of diet-related diseases. The initiative aims to provide consumers with immediate information to help them make healthier dietary choices.
Understanding the Nutri-Level System
The Nutri-Level system classifies food and drink products into four distinct categories: A, B, C, and D. These rankings are determined by the amount of sugar, salt, and fat contained in each product.
Formalized through a Health Ministry decree, the policy requires nutrition labels and health messages to be placed on ready-to-eat products. The rollout will initiate with beverages on a voluntary basis before expanding to other food categories.
Addressing Public Health and Economic Costs
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stated during a press conference on April 14 that excessive intake of salt, sugar, and fat drives both mortality rates and increasing healthcare expenses. He emphasized the urgency of improving dietary habits through clear product information.
Sutopo Patria Jati, director of the government’s universal health insurance agency, BPJS Kesehatan, noted that the insurance system is currently dominated by claims for chronic illnesses. He described the policy as a strategic step that could prevent new cases and ease pressure on the national health system.
Industry Transition and Implementation
The Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) is overseeing the implementation. Taruna Ikrar, chairperson of BPOM, explained that sweetened beverages are being prioritized in the first phase due to their role in excess sugar consumption.
To help companies adapt, a transition period of one to two years will be provided before the labels develop into mandatory. During this time, the policy remains advisory, focusing on voluntary compliance and education.
BPOM intends to offer incentives for companies that meet nutritional standards, including a “healthy food” endorsement and faster licensing approvals. This timeline is intended to address industry concerns regarding the high cost of redesigning packaging, particularly for smaller manufacturers.
Past Industry Concerns
The move comes after previous resistance from industry groups. Two years ago, the Indonesian Soft Drink Industry Association (ASRIM) and GAPMMI urged the government to delay the rules, citing potential negative implications for the broader economy and increased production costs.
While the regulation was developed through consultations with consumer organizations and ministries of trade and industry, officials from GAPMMI and ASRIM have not commented on the recent decree.
Looking Ahead
As the voluntary phase progresses, the BPOM may set a firm deadline for the mandatory application of labels. This transition could lead to a shift in how manufacturers formulate ready-to-eat products to achieve higher Nutri-Level ratings.
If successful, the initiative may result in changed consumer behavior and a potential reduction in the prevalence of chronic, diet-related illnesses across the population.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Nutri-Level system perform?
It classifies food and drink products into four categories (A, B, C, and D) based on their content of fat, salt, and sugar.
Which products will be labelled first?
The system will first apply to beverages, with a specific priority on sweetened beverages, on a voluntary basis.
What incentives are available for companies?
Products that meet nutritional standards may receive a “healthy food” endorsement and benefit from faster licensing approvals.
Do you think clear nutritional grading on packaging effectively changes how people shop for food?
