• Urges public to also pay attention to colourings/flavourings/preservatives/oxidants 

The Health Ministry urged the public to be more vigilant about the contents of food, noting that the lack of awareness contributes to numerous health issues. It emphasised that salt, among other ingredients, remains a major concern that is yet to receive adequate public attention.

The Ministry’s Environmental, Occupational, Health and Food Safety Unit’s Director Dr. Chandani Withana noted that Sri Lankans are used to consuming around two-three teaspoons of salt per day, although the amount recommended by the World Health Organisation is less than one teaspoon per day. She explained this during a press briefing held by the Ministry’s Health Promotion Bureau yesterday (4) for the World Food Safety Day which falls on 7 June.

With regard to other ingredients, she urged the public to pay attention to the ‘traffic light’ labelling system, as well as the list of ingredients and nutrients contained in food. She noted the importance of being aware of artificial colourings, flavourings, preservatives, and oxidants, as well as the impacts of the same. “At present, food contains colourings, flavourings and preservatives approved by the Ministry. However, it is better to choose more natural food,” she added.

During the discussion, it was further noted that through steps such as the Food Safety Act, Sri Lanka has taken scientific and practical approaches to ensuring the quality of food.