LOS BAÑOS, Laguna (PIA) — Health-conscious individuals, as well as those with health issues, will soon benefit from an ordinance passed by the local government of Los Baños, Laguna, which mandates the required calorie labeling on menus of selected food establishments and restaurants.
This initiative will help people make informed choices about what they eat and promote a healthy lifestyle, particularly for individuals with obesity, dialysis patients, and those with diabetes, chronic kidney disease, heart disease and other communicable diseases.
Mec Dizon, a municipal councilor of Los Baños and the author of the calorie labeling ordinance, stated that it will promote transparency from big establishments, motivating them to support the goal of providing the public with better food choices.
“What I see here is a holistic approach, where food establishments, the LGU, and the people are all collaborating to raise awareness among our citizens about what they eat and what they purchase.”
Under the ordinance, food establishments with more than 15 branches nationwide that maintain a branch in Los Baños must comply by displaying the calorie count for each food and drink serving. Additional nutritional information should also be made available upon request by the local government.
For Beyn Dangue, a Los Baños local who has been diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus, the calorie count labeling on food menus, particularly in popular fast food chains, will help him make wise decisions on which food items to consume.
“It is a huge help, especially for those who are sick, and as early as possible, they will become more aware. Through the calorie count in fast food chains, people will understand its purpose and why it is important,” Dangue said.
He also hopes that this ordinance covers not only large fast food chains but also local food businesses within Los Baños, as it would benefit others with the same condition.
“Once it is fully implemented here in Los Baños, it will be a big help to me. I can also share it with people I know who have the same health condition as mine, especially the elderly, it will also benefit them,” Dangue added.
Dizon emphasized that their goal is to first implement this in large fast food chain establishments, and eventually roll out the ordinance to all food establishments in Los Baños.
Failure to comply will result in a fine of P1,000 for the first offense, up to 1,500 for the third offense, and may lead to revocation of business permit renewals. (CO/PIA-4A)
