Consumer group Which? is urging the UK government to make traffic light nutrition labels mandatory on all packaged foods. Specifically, this call comes amid what it describes as a worsening “obesity crisis.” Moreover, the group argues that a stronger, consistent front-of-pack labelling system would help people choose healthier options more easily.
The current traffic light system—introduced in 2013—uses red, amber, and green colors to show levels of fat, saturated fat, sugar, salt, and calories. Red means high, amber medium, and green low. While many major retailers and brands use it voluntarily, adoption remains inconsistent across the market. As a result, shoppers often face confusion when comparing products.
For example, Which? found that some stores omit the labels entirely. Others display them without color coding—rendering them far less useful. To understand real-world usage, the group tracked shopping behavior through the mobile phones of over 500 UK consumers. Consequently, their findings reveal strong public support for the system.
In fact, 33% of shoppers said they check the nutrition label first when looking at a product’s front. People rely on traffic light nutrition labels most when buying snacks (56%), dairy (33%), and breakfast cereals (27%). Furthermore, nearly half (47%) reported that they find the labels easy to understand.
In focus groups, participants clearly preferred the traffic light approach over other formats. However, they suggested key improvements: make the labels larger, place them more prominently, and simplify confusing elements. Additionally, many asked for more realistic and consistent serving sizes—since unrealistic portions can mislead calorie and nutrient estimates.
Sue Davies, head of food policy at Which?, explained the urgency: “The UK is in the midst of an obesity crisis. It’s clear we need a better approach to front-of-pack labelling.” She added that the government should require all manufacturers and retailers to adopt a standardized system. “Our research shows people still prefer traffic light nutrition labels—but the current scheme needs updating so it’s clearer, simpler, and works better for consumers.”
Therefore, Which? proposes building on the existing framework rather than starting from scratch. By making traffic light nutrition labels mandatory, the government could ensure consistency, boost visibility, and remove ambiguities that confuse shoppers. Ultimately, this would create a level playing field for both businesses and consumers.
With diet-related illness placing growing pressure on the NHS, advocates argue that clear, at-a-glance nutrition information is not just helpful—it’s essential. Making these labels compulsory would empower millions to make informed, healthier choices every time they shop.
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