Effectiveness of Nutri-grade Labelling System on Lowered Consumption of High-sugar and Saturated Fats Pre-packaged Foods

The following question stood in the name of

Mr Ang Wei Neng –: 6 To ask the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) whether the Nutri-Grade labelling system has led to lower consumption of pre-packaged food high in sugar and saturated fat in Singapore; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider placing restrictions on the advertising of pre-packaged food high in sugar and saturated fat, similar to the United Kingdom’s restrictions on the advertising of food high in fat, salt and sugar.

Mr Christopher de Souza (Holland-Bukit Timah): Question No 6.

The Minister of State for Health (Ms Rahayu Mahzam) (for the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health): Mr Speaker, Nutri-Grade measures were applied first to beverages, as they contribute to more than half of Singaporean’s sugar intake. Beverages containing the highest levels of sugar and saturated fat are graded "D" and are subject to advertising prohibitions across all media platforms.

We have seen encouraging results with the Nutri-Grade measures in place. The median sugar level of pre-packaged beverages has decreased from 7.1% in 2017 to 4.6% in 2023, and the average daily sugar intake of residents has fallen from 60 grammes in 2018 to 56 grammes in 2022.

To reduce sodium intake and further reduce saturated fat consumption, Nutri-Grade measures will be extended to key contributors of sodium and saturated fat intake sold in the retail setting from mid-2027. Similarly, advertisements promoting the sale of products including prepacked salt, sauces, seasonings, instant noodles and cooking oil that are graded "D" will be prohibited.

We will continue to monitor the effectiveness of the Nutri-Grade measures on the dietary habits of Singapore residents, as well as developments around the region and internationally, before considering any further measures.