The November issue of the Asian Food Information Centre’s (AFIC), Food Facts Asia highlights the findings of a recent study on Consumer Responses to Nutrition and Health Claims, commissioned by AFIC earlier this year. The survey looked at how consumers in China and Malaysia interpreted nutrition information and health claims on some common household items, examining how the consumers deciphered the information and decided what was true or false and how much the consumers believed some of the claims made. The amount, quality of the information as well as the endorsements on the claims made were some of the factors considered by the consumers in their responses to nutrition information, and making decisions on food choices. The lead article “Nutrition Information – What to Make of It?” looks at some of the results of this interesting study.  

Also included in this latest issue of Food Facts Asia is an article looking at the importance of animal-based foods as part of a balanced diet. Animal based foods such as chicken, fish, meats and other animal-based products play an essential role in our overall health as they are particularly rich sources of essential nutrients such as protein, iron, zinc and the newly recognized ‘zoochemicals’, all of which are needed for various bodily functions. The article examines these proteins, vitamins, zoochemicals and their sources, and looks at the role they play in maintaining our health.  

Finally, in line with the International Diabetes Federation’s campaign for 2006 ‘Diabetes Care for Everyone’, the third article highlights some of the health issues associated with type 2 diabetes, including symptoms; steps individuals can take to reduce their risks of developing type 2 diabetes; the benefits of getting appropriate checkups and care if necessary; plus the scientific evidence on what dietary steps are really effective in preventing either onset of type 2 diabetes, or development of irreversible health complications in those with the disease. 

Food Facts Asia is published 3 times a year by the Asian Food Information Centre for the media and other professionals with responsibilities for communicating food and health information to consumers. The newsletter provides a balanced, scientific and easy to understand perspective on key health and food safety issues. A printed copy of Food Facts Asia has been mailed to all subscribers, and electronic versions of the complete issue and individual articles can be accessed at www.afic.org.