Ulema Call for Mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels to Protect Pakistan’s Health
Rawalpindi:4rd September, 2026
Religious scholars (Ulema), health experts and representatives of the Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) have called upon the Government of Pakistan to urgently enact mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWLs) on ultra-processed food and beverage products to protect the public, particularly children and young people, from unhealthy dietary choices and the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Conference was organized by Pakistan Nation Heart International (PANAH) at Ramada Hotel Islamabad.
Speaking at a conference President of PANAH Maj Gen. (R) Masud Ur Rehman Kiani said that extensive national and international research has established the importance of clear and easily understandable warning labels in helping consumers identify products high in sugar, salt, unhealthy fats and calories. He said countries including Chile, Mexico, Argentina, Peru and Uruguay have introduced mandatory front-of-pack warning systems, with evidence showing that such policies can influence consumer purchasing behavior and encourage manufacturers to reformulate products.
Mr. Sana Ullah Ghumman, General Secretary of the Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH), said that Ulema hold a highly respected and influential position in society and can play a vital role in protecting public health and promoting healthy lifestyles. Mr. Ghumman urged Ulema to support PANAH’s efforts for the implementation of mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWLs) on unhealthy food products. He emphasized that clear warning labels can help consumers identify products high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats and make informed choices. He appealed to Ulema to use their platforms, Friday sermons and community engagements to educate people about healthy eating and encourage collective action for a healthier Pakistan
The participating Ulema expressed their support for measures that protect public health and stressed that safeguarding human life and preventing harm are important social responsibilities. They called upon the government, religious leadership, civil society and communities to work together to promote healthier food environments, particularly for children and families.
The participants jointly demanded that the Government Expedite and enact mandatory FOPWL regulations for ultra-processed food and beverage products without further delay and ensure that warning labels are prominent, simple, clear and evidence-based, enabling consumers to immediately identify products high in critical nutrients. The participants reaffirmed that protecting public health is a shared responsibility and urged the government to take decisive action to make mandatory FOPWLs a reality in Pakistan.
