Food Labelling

Food labels are vital in helping people make quick decisions about what foods they buy.

The BHF backs the work of the Food Standards Agency which has developed a ground breaking system of colour-coded traffic light labelling to be used by supermarkets and food manufacturers.

The traffic light model provides a clear guide about the level of fat, saturated fat, sugar and salt in products which are highly processed like ready meals, by labelling each nutrient as either high (red), medium (amber) or low (green).

Red means ‘enjoy it once in a while’. amber means ‘OK most of the time’, and green means ‘go for it’

We believe that this scheme must be adopted by all supermarkets and manufacturers to help people to make more informed choices about the food they buy.

The BHF believes colour-coding is key to any labelling system and rejects the idea that individual supermarkets and manufacturers should act on their own, outside of a common approach.

The BHF is one of the leading organisations backing the call for all supermarkets and food companies to embrace traffic light colour-coding.

However, it is clear that they will only act if consumers apply concerted pressure for change. 

We want you to take action now.

Ask your local supermarket if they intend to use traffic light colour coded food labelling. Check out our sample letter available via the link below and then hand it in at the customer services desk of your local store to let them know you are supporting colours.
See our Supermarket Boss template letter

Let us know how you get on at campaigns@bhf.org.uk

Find out more

Guide to Food Labelling (G54) explains just what food labels mean to make it easier for you to choose which foods help you, and your family keep heart healthy.

To order these booklets or any other resources go to BHF  Publications, email orderline@bhf.org.uk or call 0870 600 6566.

Traffic Light film

The Food Standards Agency has produced a food labelling site and a Traffic Light film featuring our Chief Executive, Peter Hollins.

The film exopalins how shoppers can use the traffic light labelling to make healthier food choices.

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