Introduction
In response to a recent column discussing black labeling, some readers questioned my stance on the four types of black labels warning consumers about excess calories, sugar, salt, or fat. These labels were implemented in 2020 with the intention of addressing childhood and adult obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. However, I have consistently opposed this measure, deeming it ineffective for its intended purpose.
Previous Criticisms
In two previous columns, I highlighted the drawbacks of this approach. I pointed out that the term “excess” lacks a clear metric and applies equally to products exceeding an unspecified threshold by 30% or just 0.5%. Furthermore, I emphasized that such regulations must be accompanied by a comprehensive educational campaign on healthy eating habits. Instead, the government opted to ban “junk food” in schools, resulting in black markets for these items and continued consumption at home.
Mexico’s Health Challenges
Mexico faces a significant health issue: excessive sugar consumption, primarily contributing to obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and dental caries, particularly among children. The average daily intake of total sugars in the Mexican diet is 50 grams, double the WHO recommendation. Mexico ranks among the countries with the highest per capita consumption of sugary beverages, at 163 liters annually.
Refined Carbohydrates
Another major dietary concern is the excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates in processed foods. Beyond adding calories, refined grains (bread, cereals, and pasta) cause rapid blood sugar spikes by flooding the bloodstream with glucose and stimulating insulin release, storing excess calories as fat.
The Case for Pan Dulce Regulation
Traditional pan dulce combines excessive sugar and refined flour, making it detrimental to health. Exempting bakeries from black labeling has been perceived as unfair by the food industry. The goal is not to vilify these delicious treats but to raise awareness about the harmful effects of excessive sugar and processed flour.
Proposed Solutions
- Reduce sugar content in pan dulce
- Increase the use of sugar substitutes
- Display a list in bakeries indicating the sugar, fat, and calorie content of each type of pan
- Implement prominent warning labels about the negative effects of excessive sugar, fat, and calories
This strategy has proven successful with cigarettes, where labels have raised awareness and moderated consumption without outright bans. The government should also launch a continuous educational campaign to promote healthy eating habits.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are the main health issues in Mexico? Excessive sugar and refined carbohydrate consumption, leading to obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and dental caries.
- Why is black labeling insufficient? It lacks clear metrics and must be accompanied by comprehensive nutritional education.
- What are the proposed solutions for pan dulce? Reduce sugar content, increase sugar substitutes, display nutritional information, and implement warning labels.
- How can the government contribute to improving public health? By launching continuous educational campaigns on healthy eating habits.
