By Dori Modney (@Dori_Modney on Twitter) with files from The Canadian Press and Dairy Farmers of Canada

Dairy Farmers of Canada want input on “Front of Pack” labelling

Feb 13, 2018 | 1:42 PM

OTTAWA –   The Dairy Farmers of Canada (DFC), organization is concerned about Ottawa’s plans to move ahead with so-called “Front of Pack” warning labels.
 
One of the main objectives of Front-of-Package labelling is to have the information more visible for consumers, to ultimately help them make smarter choices if they ae trying to reduce chronic diseases including heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

The DFC group says Health Canada is exempting whole milk from the proposed policy because it recognizes scientific evidence that demonstrates the nutritional value of milk.

However, DFC president Pierre Lampron, says many other dairy products that are rich in essential nutrients will be stigmatized by a warning label that may confuse consumers.
 
“Dairy Farmers of Canada supports the education of Canadians on the benefits of a balanced-diet. We are concerned that this approach to labelling may come with the unintended consequence of deterring Canadians from seeking more information on the nutritional value of dairy products, at the expense of a balanced-diet.”

“This approach runs the risk of alarming consumers, and ultimately preventing them from learning more about the nutritional benefits of a food. This is completely contrary to the stated intent of Health Canada. How will they address this issue for Canadians?”
 
Lampron says the group will be fully engaged in public consultations on warning labelling and will make sure its members’ voices are heard.