Products with Warning Labels: What They Are and What They Mean
Since 2020, front-of-package labeling in Mexico has been part of the information provided on prepackaged foods and beverages to help people make more informed decisions.
What Is Front-of-Package Labeling?
It is a system that visibly indicates when a product exceeds the criteria established by regulations for certain nutrients, such as calories, sugars, saturated fats, trans fats, or sodium, based on its content per 100 grams.
The warning labels appear on the front of packaging in compliance with the provisions of Mexico’s regulation on the labeling of prepackaged non-alcoholic foods and beverages (Official Mexican Standard NOM-051-SCFI/SSA1-2010).
Does a Warning Label Mean a Product Is “Bad”?
Front-of-package labeling is an informational tool, not an absolute classification of whether a food is good or bad, nor an indication that it should or should not be eliminated from the diet.
The criteria are calculated using standardized parameters per 100 grams or 100 milliliters to compare products using the same reference.
For this reason, it is recommended to review the Nutrition Facts panel, serving size, and ingredients to better understand what the food is made of. A warning label alone does not summarize the full nutritional value of a food product.
What Else Is Worth Reviewing?
In addition to the warning labels, the packaging includes useful information such as serving size (on some products) and the Nutrition Facts panel, where consumers can review the content of all nutrients present in the product, including dietary fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, among others, as well as the list of ingredients used in the recipe.
Reading all the information on the package helps provide a better understanding of a product’s characteristics and how it can fit into a varied and balanced diet
