The Oral Health Foundation has urged the UK government to enforce mandatory front-of-pack sugar warnings and standardize the naming of added sugars on all products. The call for reform comes as part of a broader effort to educate the public on recognizing and reducing sugar intake.
According to new research by the foundation, only 19% of UK adults consistently check food labels for sugar content. This is despite tooth decay being one of the most common and preventable diseases in the country. Released during National Smile Month, the findings highlight a significant gap in consumer awareness about hidden sugars in everyday foods.
Dr. Nigel Carter, Chief Executive of the Oral Health Foundation, stated that consumers are often "caught off guard by sugar in everyday foods" due to inadequate labeling practices. Dr. Carter emphasized, "People are trying to make healthier decisions, but the information they need just isn’t clear enough."
Current labeling rules allow manufacturers to list added sugars under technical names such as glucose and dextrose, which can confuse consumers. The research shows that fewer than 29% of people use traffic light labels to assess sugar content, and only 46% check ingredients lists where added sugars may be disguised.
Dr. Carter warned that current systems favor manufacturers over public health interests, contributing to conditions like tooth decay and obesity. He called for government action: “We’re calling for mandatory front-of-pack sugar warnings, clearer naming of added sugars, and government-led education on how to spot them.”
The study also found that consumers are more likely to scrutinize labels on overtly sugary items like chocolate or biscuits compared to everyday products with hidden sugars such as cereals or soft drinks.
The Oral Health Foundation advocates for a complete overhaul of food labeling policies in the UK, aiming to give sugar visibility similar to that of fat or calories. Dr. Carter concluded with a call for collective action: “We must stop treating sugar like a harmless treat and start recognizing it as a serious health threat.”
For updates on National Smile Month activities and discussions around this campaign, individuals are encouraged to follow related social media platforms using hashtags #SmileMonth and #FeedYourSmile.
