University of Swabi Joins PANAH’s Campaign for Mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels
Youth Voices are Essential to Protect Pakistan’s Future from Unhealthy Foods: PANAH
Swabi – 7 November 2026 (MT Team) : The Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) organized a youth engagement and awareness session at the University of Swabi to highlight the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Pakistan and mobilize young people to support the enactment of mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWLs) on unhealthy ultra-processed food products (UPPs).
Addressing the participants, PANAH General Secretary Sana Ullah Ghumman delivered a detailed presentation on the alarming rise of diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and other NCDs in Pakistan, which account for approximately 60% of deaths in the country. He explained how excessive consumption of ultra-processed products high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats is contributing to this public-health crisis, particularly among young people. He emphasized that the increasing availability and aggressive marketing of unhealthy food products make effective public-health policies more urgent than ever.
Ghumman highlighted the importance of mandatory FOPWLs, explaining how clear, prominent warning labels can help consumers identify products containing excessive amounts of sugar, salt and unhealthy fats and make informed food choices. Referring to international experiences, he stressed that Pakistan must take immediate steps to introduce mandatory warning labels to protect consumers and promote healthier diets. He urged students to raise their voices in support of this policy and become active advocates for a healthier Pakistan.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Swabi, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Nasim Ullah Qureshi, appreciated PANAH’s initiative and emphasized that young people have the potential to bring meaningful change in society. He encouraged students to adopt healthier lifestyles, move towards natural and nutritious food choices, and use their voices to create awareness about preventable diseases.
Dr. Ruidar Ali Shah, Director ORIC, welcomed PANAH’s delegation and appreciated its efforts to engage academic institutions in public-health advocacy. He also expressed interest in strengthening future collaboration between the University of Swabi and PANAH.
PANAH reiterated its commitment to engaging universities and young people across Pakistan, emphasizing that mandatory Front-of-Pack Warning Labels are essential to ensuring consumers’ right to know and protecting future generations from the harmful effects of unhealthy foods.
