Heading into the party season, partaking of too many holiday spirits can leave you with an unwelcome hangover — and can also wreak havoc on your gut health.

"In addition to being a significant contributor to weight gain due to high-calorie density, alcohol can also reduce our ability to fight infections and increase the risk of developing diseases, food intolerances and sensitivities — all as a result of poor gut health," said Dr. Gill Hart, biochemist and scientific director at U.K.-based YorkTest, a health and wellness company that provides lab tests for food sensitivities and allergies.

"Gut health" refers to the health of your entire gastrointestinal tract, including all the bacteria within your digestive system. 

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When the balance of "good" and "bad" bacteria is thrown out of whack, it can have a ripple effect on all aspects of your health. 

Hart shared with Fox News Digital seven ways that alcohol can impact gut health. She also shared tips on how to reduce those negative effects.

"Alcohol impacts our gut, causing imbalances in our healthy/unhealthy gut bacteria, exacerbating gut permeability and impacting our immune systems," Hart said.

A majority of the immune system — around 70% — is found in the gut, she said.

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"Since alcohol can compromise healthy bacteria, it’s essential to take steps to protect your gut biome when you drink to protect your immune system," she said.

Hart recommends aiming to stay within drinking guidelines, whatever that means for you.

That might mean having a minimum of three sober days per week, or only having alcohol with or after a meal to reduce absorption.

"Focusing on consuming foods rich in prebiotics, probiotics and fiber can help to restore a healthy gut biome and support your immune system," Hart said.

It’s not always just the alcohol (ethanol) that can irritate the gut. Sometimes other ingredients in alcoholic drinks can have negative effects, some of which aren’t always obvious, Hart warned.

"The grapes, wheat, barley, hops, yeast and other ingredients — such as fruits and dairy in cocktails and mixers — can all irritate your gut, causing inflammation," she said.

Those ingredients can also contribute to food intolerances and sensitivities, causing symptoms such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bloating, low energy, low mood, headaches and even skin issues like eczema or psoriasis.

"Gassy drinks, such as mixers, often include artificial sweeteners that are not usually gut-friendly, so try to avoid these," Hart recommended.

It’s also important to consider the impact of the added sugars that are often present in alcoholic drinks, which are known to contribute to a higher risk of diabetes. 

"Those with type 2 diabetes may have a less diverse and balanced gut biome than non-diabetic individuals," Hart said.

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"Diabetes is the most common known cause of gastroparesis, a condition that affects how you digest your food," she said.

Symptoms of this condition include nausea, heartburn and bloating.

"To reduce diabetes risk, try to reduce or avoid consuming alcoholic drinks that are higher in sugar, such as cocktails, pre-mixed drinks, alcopops, liqueurs, cider, fortified wines and sherry," Hart suggested.

"A key takeaway is the effect of alcohol on the liver, which is also linked to gut health," Hart said. 

"Imbalances in the gut biome are linked to gastritis, which causes the stomach lining to become inflamed, and fatty liver disease, which leads to fatty tissues affecting optimal digestive function," she went on.

While only 60% of liver diseases are caused by alcohol, studies have shown that the most common cause of alcohol-related death in the U.S. is alcoholic liver disease.

An estimated one in eight total deaths among U.S. adults aged 20 to 64 years is attributed to excessive alcohol use, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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"The best way to reduce the effect of alcohol-related liver disease is to stop drinking alcohol or stick to the recommended Dietary Guidelines for Americans, limiting intake to two drinks or less a day for men and one drink or less for women," said Hart.

Excessive alcohol consumption can also inhibit the production of digestive enzymes, Hart warned, making it more difficult for your body to break down, digest and absorb food.

"This leads to an imbalance in the gut biome, with partially digested food being a cause of bloating and gas," she said.

When planning meals during a "heavy drinking season," she suggests focusing on foods that help to optimize your gut microbiome — "the 100 trillion bacteria that live in your gut that are crucial for your health."

Fermented foods, such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi and sauerkraut, contain probiotics that help to nourish and protect the gut, Hart added.

"The long-term effects of excessive alcohol consumption really are sobering," said Hart. 

"Alcohol is a depressant — it contributes to depression, anxiety and heightened stress levels, and its negative effects on mental health are far more than most of us are ever likely to admit."

High levels of stress can inhibit the digestive system in similar ways to alcohol, she warned — "although the heightened stress levels after drinking alcohol often linger longer, making any dietary efforts to improve gut health after a drinking session less impactful."

To help calm the digestive system and support gut health and immunity, Hart said it’s important to cultivate a "relaxation response."

"Taking time to rest and recharge after a night of drinking alcohol, in whatever way that works for you, is essential to support your mental wellness and gut health," she added.

"While it’s important to keep hydrated when drinking alcohol, drinking more water or soft drinks isn’t going to offset the effect that alcohol has on your gut," Hart said.

"However, if drinking more water — or soft drinks such as kombucha tea or low- to no-alcohol beverages — means drinking less alcohol, then this is the best way to reduce the risk of negative effects that alcohol can have on your gut and overall health."

Hart suggests starting the evening with a zero- or low-alcohol drink, then alternating consuming alcoholic drinks with water to avoid dehydration (and a hangover).

Better yet, low-alcohol or no-alcohol wine and beers make it easier to drink socially without alcohol, which Hart said is a much better choice for your health.

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"Aside from reducing alcohol consumption as a whole, simple diet changes such as avoiding sugary and carbonated mixed drinks, replacing alcohol with low- or no-alcohol alternatives, and only drinking alcohol with or after food can reduce the negative effects of alcohol on your gut health," Hart added. 

Additionally, making an effort to consume fermented foods post-drinking is important to restore your microbiome for a healthy gut. 

Hart added, "Taking a closer look at the ingredients in alcoholic drinks and taking a food sensitivity test can also be important to identify any foods in your diet that could contribute to discomfort and poor gut health."

For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health

The first of its kind in the region, Grenada observed International Men’s Day by staging a 4-day International Men’s Day Regional Conference

View the full post Call for modern gender equity that includes men on NOW Grenada.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Thursday announced its approval of Ixchiq, the first chikungunya vaccine.

The vaccine, which is made by Valneva, is approved for anyone age 18 and older who has a risk of being exposed to the virus.

The chikungunya virus is transmitted to people through bites from infected mosquitoes. 

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"This virus is in a similar category as dengue or Zika and is carried by the same mosquitoes," noted Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor.

The FDA described chikungunya as an "emerging global health threat," with at least five million cases reported over the past 15 years. 

"Infection with chikungunya virus can lead to severe disease and prolonged health problems, particularly for older adults and individuals with underlying medical conditions," said Peter Marks, M.D., PhD, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, in a press release on Thursday. 

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"Today’s approval addresses an unmet medical need and is an important advancement in the prevention of a potentially debilitating disease with limited treatment options," he also said.

Before the FDA’s approval, the vaccine’s safety was tested in clinical trials that included 3,500 adults.

Participants most commonly reported headache, muscle pain, fatigue, joint pain, nausea, fever and tenderness at the injection site as side effects.

A small share of recipients (1.6%) experienced adverse reactions, with two of the recipients needing to be hospitalized, per the FDA’s release.

In a separate study, the vaccine’s efficacy was measured based on the immune response data of 266 adult participants. 

Almost all of them were shown to have protective antibody levels.

The most common symptoms are fever and joint pain, with some people also experiencing headache, muscle pain, joint swelling or rash, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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Symptoms usually begin within three to seven days after transmission.

Most people who contract the virus get better within a week.

In rare cases, the virus can cause severe and long-lasting joint pain.

Those at highest risk for adverse health effects include older adults, newborns who contract the infection at birth, and people with heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure, per the CDC.

Deaths from the virus are very rare.

Mosquitoes carrying the chikungunya virus are endemic in Africa, Southeast Asia and parts of the Americas, the FDA stated in its release.

Before 2013, cases of the chikungunya virus were primarily documented in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

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In late 2013, the first local cases were documented in Caribbean countries, which then led to the virus spreading throughout the Americas, the CDC stated.

For those who have been exposed and have symptoms, a blood test can confirm the presence of chikungunya or other similar viruses.

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People who are infected and experience symptoms should rest, stay hydrated with fluids and take over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or paracetamol, to relieve and reduce fever, according to the CDC.

People who are traveling to countries where the virus is prevalent can reduce their risk by using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and staying indoors or in screened areas.

Siegel noted that the vaccine — which he deems "safe and effective" — contains a live weakened version of the virus vaccine.

"That means it is not intended for [the] immunocompromised, but it is useful for those at risk of severe cases of chikungunya," he told Fox News Digital.

Added the doctor, "The vaccine is being fast-tracked, which for me means I would give it to those most at risk first, while watching post-marketing studies over next year."

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

Everyone is at risk of developing Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes, which affects pregnant women, so it is important to adopt and practice healthy lifestyle choices

View the full post Demystifying diabetes on NOW Grenada.

Better care for cancer patients may be on the horizon.

A new prescription medicine for treating cervical cancer has been showing positive results in clinical trials.

In phase 3 global trials, TIVDAK (tisotumab vedotin) was linked to a 30% overall reduction in the risk of death compared to chemotherapy.

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TIVDAK also demonstrated a 33% decrease in the risk of worsening disease or death.

In addition, the intravenous drug showed an improved objective response rate of 17.8% compared to chemotherapy at 5.2%.

The trial also measured the disease control rate, which is the percentage of patients who experience complete response, partial response or stable disease.

TIVDAK displayed a 75.9% disease control rate, while chemo showed a 58.2% rate.

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. Brian Slomovitz, director of gynecologic oncology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach, Florida, emphasized the importance of these findings.

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"To have an overall survival advantage in this disease is extremely, extremely rare," he said.

"It changes the second-line standard of care for this disease. Now, all patients who recur after first-line therapy should be considered for this therapy," Slomovitz added. "So it's a game-changer."

Slomovitz, who has been directly involved in the trials, explained that the new class of drugs attacks a certain protein on the cell, which allows chemotherapy to be delivered to the cell "in a precise fashion."

He said, "So, it doesn't give a lot of the peripheral side effects that we see with traditional chemotherapy."

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, is not involved in the drug's development or testing, but he believes the drug shows promise as an effective treatment.

"Cervical cancer can be a very aggressive disease, difficult to diagnose early, with a poor prognosis when it is metastatic," he told Fox News Digital.

"It is generally treated with multiple drugs, including chemo and radiation, which can shrink the tumor but very often does not cure it," he added. "The new targeted therapy TIVDAK, which includes a monoclonal antibody against the tissue factor associated with the tumor, is an "effective additional and useful therapy with a high response rate."

TIVDAK has shown ocular side effects such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), peripheral neuropathy (weakness, numbness, and pain from nerve damage) and some bleeding, but Dr. Kathleen Moore, associate director of clinical research at Stephenson Cancer Center in Oklahoma City, said she felt that is manageable.

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Moore has been administering TIVDAK to her patients since the FDA’s accelerated approval in 2021. 

She reported that they haven’t had a difficult time managing and offsetting side effects. Patients usually find relief by using prescription eye drops prior to beginning treatment and cold compresses to mitigate potential toxicity, Moore said.

"There's not been a single issue with a patient not being able to use the eyedrops and be compliant with all the mitigation strategies in order to obtain the benefit from this medication," she said.

Only 5% of patients have had to discontinue treatment due to side effects, Slomovitz reported.

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Chemotherapy, comparatively, shows a "much higher risk" of side effects, including anemia, nausea, hair loss and neutropenia, according to Slomovitz.

"We’re hoping that a treatment like [TIVDAK] is something that the patients prefer as opposed to the chemotherapy option," he said.

"As clinicians, we feel that the side effects are very manageable — and given the overall increase in efficacy, it's something that our patients are willing to have."

Moore mentioned that Oklahoma has "quite a bit of experience" with TIVDAK, since there is a large population of cervical cancer patients who present with "very advanced disease or metastatic disease at diagnosis" and require the treatment.

The doctor, who is also a drug developer, said her patients have done "very well" with the drug and appreciate its effectiveness and accessibility through insurance.

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"That's unheard of," she said. "In the past, we just did not have active medications and our patients really were left with ineffective therapies, and they just died."

Patients are recognizing that TIVDAK has worked to shrink their tumors, Moore said, which then leads to less pain and reduced dosage of medication.

"They’re feeling better because their disease is shrinking," she said.

TIVDAK has been used in practice since phase 2 trials led to accelerated approval by the FDA in the U.S.

The drug, however, could not earn full FDA approval until phase 3 was complete, Slomovitz noted.

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"We're hoping that the FDA approves this for a confirmatory trial in the setting, which would obviously have a great impact on the care of our patients," he said.

Slomovitz said he’s optimistic the FDA will give full approval for the drug in the "near future."

Both doctors shared their hopes for FDA drug clearance globally.

"We're starting to see, finally, improvements in therapies for patients who have advanced metastatic cervical cancer, all improving overall survival," Moore said. "So it is looking brighter."

Cervical cancer is the fourth most deadly cancer in female patients, according to Slomovitz.

Moore pointed out that the best way to avoid cervical cancer is to prevent it through annual screenings and vaccinations.

"This is an entirely preventable disease," she said. 

"The correct way to cure is to prevent, so that’s what we should be doing, too."

For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health

The secret of avoiding heart disease could come down to which foods are on — or off — your plate.

While you can’t control factors such as age or family history, the choice to adopt a heart-healthy diet can help reduce your risk.

"The goal is not to go on a temporary diet for rapid weight loss, but to make good lifestyle choices to promote well-being permanently," said Dr. Bradley Serwer, a cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, a Cincinnati-based company that offers cardiovascular and anesthesiology services to hospitals nationwide.

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Serwer and other cardiologists shared with Fox News Digital their nutrition advice for reducing the risk of coronary disease and heart attacks.

Here are some of their tips.

"Foods that contain high levels of trans fats, which are found in many fried foods, are some of the worst offenders," Serwer said. 

Trans saturated fats are artificially created, he noted. They raise levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as bad cholesterol, while at the same time lowering high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or good cholesterol. 

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"High levels of bad cholesterol promote coronary atherosclerosis, also known as clogged arteries," Serwer warned.

Dr. Alexander Postalian, a cardiologist at the Texas Heart Institute, warned that simple carbohydrates — including bread and potatoes — are the primary enemy. 

"They get absorbed quickly, raise blood sugar and can get converted into ‘bad’ cholesterol," he said.

Other examples of simple carbohydrates include sugary drinks, sweets, rice and tortillas.

Foods rich in saturated fats, which include red meat, also raise LDL levels, increasing the risk of heart disease, said Serwer.

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Dr. Leonard Ganz, chief medical officer and divisional vice president of medical affairs at Abbott’s cardiac rhythm management business in Sylmar, California, told Fox News Digital that when bacteria in the gut break down meat, one of the metabolites produced is TMAO (trimethylamine N-oxide) — which may increase the risk of heart and kidney disease, as well as type 2 diabetes. 

"In particular, processed meats such as bacon and sausage have nitrates that may increase inflammation and sodium, ultimately raising blood pressure that may be associated with inflammation," he added.

Dairy also falls into the category of high saturated fats, Serwer said, making it a food to limit or avoid for optimal heart health.

While butter, cream and ice cream are not heart-healthy, the American Heart Association says that reduced-fat yogurt, cheese and milk are safer options for people who have high cholesterol or a history of heart disease.

Foods that are high in sugar, especially those containing high-fructose corn syrup, increase the risk of obesity and diabetes, Serwer warned. 

"Obesity and diabetes are independent risk factors for coronary artery disease, which further adds fuel to the fire for developing atherosclerosis," he added.

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Foods high in sugar and processed carbohydrates, such as white bread, soda and candy, can raise blood glucose levels, increasing the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and stroke, according to Ganz.

While some amount of sodium is essential for the human body, too much can cause blood pressure to spike, raising the risk of heart attack and stroke, experts say.

Some common culprits include deli meats, canned soups and veggies, frozen meals and prepared sauces.

"These typically have a combination of all the worst offenders, to include trans fats, saturated fats, high sodium and sugar," Serwer said.

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These convenience foods are uniquely designed to promote atherosclerosis "in a very effective manner" and should be avoided as much as possible, the doctor advised.

While there is some data to support red wine in moderation, excess alcohol has a direct toxic effect on the heart, Serwer warned.

"Alcoholic drinks are also high in calories and sodium, and can contribute to obesity and high blood pressure," he said.

"These are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure and improving overall cardiovascular health," Serwer said.

"There is excellent data for plant-based diets lowering the risk of heart disease — particularly those that are high in fiber," he added.

Green, leafy vegetables provide vitamins and minerals, while nitrates also contribute to healthy blood vessel function, said Ganz.

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"Citrus fruits are also high in potassium, which can lower blood pressure," he added.

Although fruits are rich in simple carbohydrates (simple sugars), Postalian said they are beneficial when eaten in moderation.

"Fruits contain fiber that supports digestion, which slows the absorption of sugar," he said.

These include wheat, oats and brown rice, all of which provide complex carbohydrates and fiber that can help lower bad cholesterol levels, Serwer said.

"Skinless chicken, fish, legumes and nuts are an excellent source of protein without the saturated fat that's often found in red meat," said Serwer.

Some of the lean proteins Postalian recommends include grilled fish, grilled chicken and vegetables — "without a lot of dressing, as these can sneak in additional sugar and calories," he added. 

These foods qualify as healthy fats, Serwer said.

"Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are an excellent source to help improve cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation," he added.

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Some fatty fish that are highest in omega-3s include salmon, bluefin tuna, anchovies, herring, mackerel, black cod, sardines, whitefish, striped bass and cobia, according to the American Heart Association.

These foods are all part of the Mediterranean diet, which has long been linked to improved heart health.

Added Ganz, "Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids are great sources of protein and have been associated with lower blood pressure, a better lipid profile and a lower risk of arrhythmia."

Also part of the Mediterranean diet, oils and foods high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats have antioxidant effects and contribute to blood vessel health, Ganz said. 

"Olive oil is the most obvious example, but other oils, including safflower, sunflower and sesame — and some nuts, such as walnuts and almonds — have similar effects," he added.

Studies have shown that drinking enough water helps maintain healthy sodium levels, which plays a part in preventing heart disease.

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"Proper hydration also helps support overall health and helps avoid injuring the kidneys," Serwer added.

This heart-healthy treat is an unexpected bonus, Ganz said. 

"This dessert is rich in flavonoids, which have antioxidants and blood pressure-lowering effects," he noted.

Beyond choosing the right foods, Serwer pointed out that portion control is "paramount" to avoiding obesity and coronary artery disease.

Postalian agreed, adding, "Being mindful of the energy balance to maintain a healthy weight is very important — how many calories come in, with food, versus how many go out, with exercise and metabolism."

For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health

A mammogram is a radiographic image of the breast. Regular mammograms have the ability to detect breast cancer in its early stages, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt.

When you go for your mammogram, initially, you’ll position yourself in front of an X-ray machine, where a radiologist will place one of your breasts on a plastic plate. Another plate will then gently compress your breast from above, keeping it steady while the X-ray is taken.

You may experience some pressure. Subsequently, the same procedure will be carried out for the other breast. Finally, you’ll wait while the radiologist reviews the X-rays to ensure that they don’t need to be retaken before you receive your results.

It is important to note that each woman’s mammogram may look a little different due to the unique characteristics of each individual’s breast. Contact Diagnostic Radiology at 432-7099 or office@diagnosticbarbados.com to book your appointment.

The post What to Expect: Your First Mammogram appeared first on Barbados Today.

In the wake of a loved one’s passing, many find solace in preserving cherished memories through photos, mementoes, or keepsakes. For former journalist Krystal Penny Bowen, the route of memory for her late mother, Sheralene Bowen, begins in the kitchen. The destination is the book, Food: My Mother’s Love Language: Celebrating the Life of Sheralene Bowen, a culinary tribute encapsulating her mother’s delicious recipes.

Bowen has received heartwarming feedback from readers who commend her for the touching tribute to her mother. 

She fondly recalled one of her most cherished memories of working side by side with her mother in the kitchen, a place where they not only prepared meals but also nurtured their bond.

“My mother loved to let me take photos of her food. I think that was the only way that I could be in the kitchen. In addition to that we would work together to get her food orders out. I was often called on to get the supplies or prep the raw materials. I would provide as much support as possible and in some cases, I would even serve the food at the event during her catering jobs,” she said. 

The idea took root in November 2021 when Krystal created a 12-page draft containing her ailing mother’s 12 cherished recipes. Sheralene wholeheartedly embraced the concept and supported her daughter’s effort until she succumbed to cervical cancer just four months later. Krystal was determined to see her dream of publishing the book come to fruition, not only as a culinary compilation but also as a brief glimpse into the multifaceted life of her beloved mother, who was not only a chef but also a devoted mom and active community member.

Krystal emphasised her dedication to commemorating her mother’s life with the utmost respect for her final days and their family. The book primarily focuses on her mother’s remarkable career as a cook and entrepreneur, taking approximately four months to complete. Krystal collaborated with Robert Gibson of Passionate Words Editing Services, whose expertise was invaluable in shaping the book’s layout and appearance.

While the writing process was undoubtedly challenging, Krystal firmly believes it played an integral role in her healing journey by allowing her to share her mother’s incredible persona with a wider audience.

Krystal said: “My mother was an incredible person. She was artistic, funny, kind and loving. She was a social butterfly – she enjoyed socialising, dancing, singing and volunteering. As a cook and chef, she worked in hospitality, in food canteens as well as in several restaurants such as the now defunct BJ’s Café, Wonderland Deli and the University of The West Indies Cave Hill Campus Cafeteria. She catered for The University of The West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, World Cup 2007, QEH Medical Staff as well as for the late Prime Minister of Barbados, The Rt. Hon. David Thompson and then-Attorney General of Barbados, and now Prime Minister of Barbados, The Hon. Mia Amor Mottley. Mom was unable to work for many years due to her declining health, in 2022 she was diagnosed with advanced cervical cancer.”

The graduate of The University of Leicester with a Masters of Art in Media, Communications, and Public Relations urges others to consider documenting their loved ones’ legacies through writing, as it can provide solace during the grieving process.

“Writing a book about your loved one is difficult, but I believe one should do it. My mom meant the world to me. She was my friend, she loved me unconditionally. When writing, think of what was truly special about that parent. For my mother, it was her love of cooking and how she used food to share her love. Food was her love language –it was how she showed her feelings, and she was an incredible cook too,” she shared, encapsulating the profound sentiment behind her tribute to her mother. (PR/BT)

The post Daughter’s tribute to mum’s cooking appeared first on Barbados Today.

“One can also stay hydrated in extreme heat by consuming water-rich fruits and vegetables that can be found in the backyard or in the market”

View the full post Stay hydrated by eating water-rich fruits and vegetables on NOW Grenada.

By Emmanuel Joseph

A CARICOM Impact Assessment (CIA) study on front-of-package Nutritional Labelling (FoPNL) has unveiled that Barbados imports the highest percentage of products displaying the UK Traffic Light warning system.

FoPNL is seen as a tool to inform consumers of the healthiness of foods, encourage healthier food choices, and limit the intake of foods that contain high amounts of critical nutrients of public health concern, such as sodium, sugars, and fats.

The CIA study, which was funded by the region’s private sector, also confirmed the need for a labelling model designed to meet the unique needs of consumers in Barbados and the rest of the region.

Ironically, the 214-page research, conducted by St Lucia-based KMA Consulting Limited last year, found that “the US Facts Up Front and the UK Traffic Light schemes are best suited to achieve the regional population’s health objectives, in comparison to the CARICOM Regional Standards Scheme Octagonal Warning Label”.

The controversial Black and White Octagonal Warning Label is the sole front-of-package model under consideration by CARICOM, whose member states will vote this weekend on whether to implement it as the region-wide system.

On Monday, the Barbados Private Sector Association (BPSA), representing food and beverage makers and importers, told Barbados TODAY that it planned to reject the CARICOM label.

The study, designed to ascertain an appropriate FoPNL scheme and identify a harmonised approach for its implementation, was commissioned by the Regional Private Sector Organisation.

“Of the products with an FoPNL, the most commonly used was the US Facts Up Front, followed by the EU GDA and UK Traffic Light systems in descending order. On average, 16 per cent of the products in the product sample featured the US Facts Up Front FoPNL, 4 per cent the EU GDA, and only 0.9 per cent bore the UK Traffic FoPNL,” the survey concluded.

“The Bahamas had the largest percentage of products with the US Facts Up Front FoPNL at 29 per cent, while Jamaica had the lowest at six per cent. The GDA system was most commonly used in Belize and Trinidad, with seven per cent and five per cent of the products carrying that label, respectively. Jamaica had the lowest percentage of goods with the EU GDA label at only two per cent.

“Barbados had the highest percentage of products with the UK Traffic Light system at four per cent. However, none of the products in the sample from Guyana and Jamaica carried the UK Traffic Light system. No products were found bearing the Mexican and Brazilian FoPNL Models.”

The survey also revealed that “a clear regional policy should be enunciated to guide the design and format of a regional FoPNL scheme suited to meet the needs of regional consumers”.

The researchers also recommended that the development process for the label should be jointly led by the relevant public sector agencies responsible for trade, economic development, and food and nutrition security and that this process involves all key stakeholders, particularly the regional food manufacturing/processing sector.

They concluded that once consensus is reached on the design and format of the FoPNL model, it should be proposed for regional standardisation through the established regional standards development process.

“Concurrently, member states should urgently begin steps towards strengthening their national and consequently regional quality infrastructure for food and nutrition safety and security,” the impact assessment recommended, adding that enforcement should be informed by a thorough Regulatory Impact Assessment.

“Enforcement of an FoPNL scheme should be carried out through the appropriate food safety technical regulations (referencing the appropriate national labelling standard) in each member state at the appropriate stage.”

Before recommending the US and UK front-of-package labels for use in the region, the researchers evaluated and ranked the different schemes on factors such as economic impact, social impact, and compliance impact.

Using data from primary and secondary sources, the different FoPNL models were assessed within a multi-criteria analysis (MCA) framework, applying indicators such as consumer choice, production, and trade.

They said that MCA is used as an alternative to cost-benefit analysis to assess the comparative suitability of alternatives and consider other factors that cannot be quantified or assigned monetary value.

The study revealed that across the eight pilot countries, on average, 70 per cent of the products reviewed had nutritional facts labels, while only 22 per cent had FoPNL. The Bahamas had the highest percentage of products with nutritional facts labels, 95 per cent, and consequently the highest proportion of products with an FoPNL.

The survey found that Barbados had the seventh highest, with 65 per cent.

However, Barbados fared slightly better among the eight countries when it came to front-of-package nutritional labels, ranking fourth, with 22 per cent of its products featuring FoPNL.

The findings from the market baseline assessment, randomised control trial, stakeholder engagement, and literature review confirmed that the eating habits of regional consumers have trended toward increased consumption of street vended and packaged processed foods.

The results also showed that food-based dietary guidelines in most CARICOM member states are outdated and not aligned with the intent of the regional and respective national policies on food and nutrition security.

Coming out of the stakeholder engagement, it was recommended that the introduction of an FoPNL scheme must be supported by a robust consumer education campaign. 

emmanueljoseph@barbadostoday.bb

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