Nutrition grades are now displayed on prepacked and automatically dispensed beverages
Nutri-Grade beverages are graded as “A”, “B”, “C” or “D”, according to the sugar and saturated fat content.
Prepackaged and automatically dispensed beverages must now display nutrition labelling and comply with advertisement prohibition measures, announced the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Thursday (Dec 29).
Collectively referred to as Nutri-Grade beverages, they will be graded “A”, “B”, “C” or “D”, according to their sugar and saturated fat content.
Nutri-Grade beverages include beverages prepacked in bottles, cans, cartons or packets, and powders or concentrates such as 3-in-1 instant coffee beverage and cordials, said MOH.
This also includes beverages dispensed from automated dispensers such as fountain drinks and coffee machines.
Nutri-Grade beverages graded “C” or “D” will be labelled with a Nutri-Grade mark, MOH added. Labelling is optional for beverages with “A” or “B” grades, or those endorsed with the Healthier Choice Symbol (HCS).
These beverages must also display a nutrition information panel (NIP) specifying the energy value, the amounts of protein, carbohydrate, fat, total sugar and saturated fat.
With Nutri-Grade beverages graded “D”, advertisements will be prohibited except in certain circumstances detailed in regulation 184F(2) in the Food Regulations.
According to Singapore Statutes Online, the prohibition does not apply if the advertisement provides information about the name and price of the Nutri-Grade beverage but does not otherwise promote its sale.
It must also be published on: the corporate website of a manufacturer, as part of a product launch not accessible to any member of the general public other than an invited guest, or in the form of a press or media release.
Nutrition labelling and advertising prohibition measures were first introduced in October 2019.
MOH and HPB held public consultations on measures to reduce the Singaporeans’ sugar intake from pre-packaged sugar sweetened beverages from Dec 4, 2018 till Jan 25, 2019.
Similar measures will be extended to freshly prepared beverages that will take effect by end 2023, with more details to be released at a later time.
Consumers are encouraged to “limit their intake” of “C” and “D” beverages and to opt for “A” or “B” beverages, those with HCS labels or to drink water instead.
A list of Nutri-Grade beverages graded “A” and “B” can be found on HealthHub.
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