Influence of Food Labels on Consumer Choices
The terms like fat-free, low sugar, or GMO-free significantly impact consumer food choices by shaping perceptions of health, quality, and safety.
- Definition and Importance of Food Safety:
- Food safety involves practices that preserve the quality and safety of food to prevent contamination and foodborne illness.
- It is crucial for public health, reduces healthcare costs, and maintains consumer confidence in the food supply chain.
- Food Standards and Regulatory Frameworks:
- Regulatory frameworks such as the Food Safety Act 1990 in the UK outline standards for food production and handling.
- These frameworks ensure food is safe for consumption and protects public health through enforcement of safety standards.
- Codex Alimentarius:
- The Codex Alimentarius is a set of internationally recognised standards, guidelines, and codes of practice established by the FAO and WHO.
- It aims to protect consumer health, ensure fair trade practices, and promote coordination of food standards worldwide.
- Risk Analysis in Food Safety:
- Risk analysis encompasses the assessment, management, and communication of food safety risks.
- This process is critical for identifying and mitigating potential hazards in the food supply chain.
- Food Labelling and Consumer Rights:
- Food labels inform consumers about ingredients, nutritional information, and allergens which influence purchasing decisions.
- Labelling regulations, including the Food Information to Consumers Regulation 2014, protect consumer rights and promote informed choices.
- Globalisation and Food Safety Challenges:
- Globalisation has increased food variety and availability, but it also complicates food safety due to diverse standards across countries.
- Challenges include fraud, contamination, and traceability, emphasising the need for robust international food safety measures.
- Emerging Issues and Innovations in Food Safety:
- Emerging issues include chemical hazards, new pathogens, and changing consumer preferences towards healthier options.
- Innovations such as blockchain technology and AI are being utilised to enhance traceability and monitoring in food safety.
