Govt profiles processed foods high in sugar, unhealthy fats

What the report says

Uganda’s Ministry of Health has introduced a new nutrition profiling model aimed at identifying processed foods that are high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats. The system, launched on Tuesday, sets thresholds for five nutrients of concern: sugars, salt, saturated fats, trans fats and total fats. Officials say it is meant to support efforts to regulate the marketing of products that exceed recommended limits and to help consumers make better-informed choices.

According to the ministry, the model is aligned with the World Health Organisation’s regional nutrient profile guidance for Africa. It was developed after a survey of processed foods in 14 districts, which found that many products, including snacks, exceeded recommended levels for sodium, sugar and saturated fat. Health officials said the findings reflect a wider shift in diets toward more processed foods, alongside growing concern about obesity and other non-communicable diseases.

The ministry also raised concern about food marketing, especially through social media, schools, billboards and other channels that can reach children. Officials said front-of-pack labelling and clearer nutrition information could help consumers compare products more easily. They also noted that Uganda is facing a double burden of malnutrition, with undernutrition alongside rising overweight, obesity, hypertension and diabetes.

However, the report says there is currently no legal mechanism requiring manufacturers or advertisers to comply with the thresholds. The ministry said it is working on a legal framework, while experts quoted in the piece argued that public education and stronger enforcement will be needed if the model is to change eating habits and the broader food environment.