Editorial | Unhealthy findings call for food action

Green living has increasingly become an integral part of a modern lifestyle. From embracing vegetarianism to using environmentally friendly products, the growing green sense is a welcome trend. However, industry practices and regulations put in place by the government do not always evolve with the times as swiftly as they should. Consumer protection in this respect still has much room for improvement.

Credit goes to the Consumer Council for putting the spotlight on questionable food products for vegetarians and vegans. It was found that one vegetarian “meat” sample contained genes of swine and fish; three “lacto-vegetarian” samples had egg ingredients; six samples had preservatives but were omitted from the ingredients list.

Whether they amount to fakes under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance is a matter for customs officials to answer. But vegetarians and vegans are understandably upset when items that are supposed to be suitable for them to eat carry animal genes and egg ingredients. Extra care is needed when they shop for food or dine out.

Selection has been made even more difficult due to slack enforcement of food labelling. None of the 35 pre-packaged vegetarian “meat” samples tested by the consumer watchdog fully complied with the technical guidance of the Centre for Food Safety requirements on nutrition labelling. Adding to the problems were their high levels of salt and fat. Nearly two-thirds of the samples tested were found to have high sodium content. In one case, the total fat was eight times as much as its claimed value. Meanwhile, the protein content in three vegetarian “seafood” samples was generally low, with one sample carrying no protein at all even though it was labelled 2.3 grams protein per 100 grams.

Vegetarian and vegan diets are supposed to be healthier. But those who know little about nutrition and ingredients can easily consume products that are not as healthy as they think. This is not helped when the food labelling regime gives room for abuses by unethical manufacturers and distributors. This is particularly worrying for those with restricted dietary needs. The irregularities should be followed up by the relevant authorities.