Starting July 26, 2024, Indonesia's new regulation mandates color-graded labels for products high in salt, sugar, and fat, fundamentally changing how consumers will perceive their food and beverage options. Government Regulation Number 28 of 2024, enacted on that date, requires mandatory front-of-package labels, menu labeling, and product reformulation to reduce salt, sugar, and fat, according to the World Health Organization. This measure aims to provide clear nutritional information, potentially influencing daily purchasing decisions across the nation.

Indonesia is imposing mandatory color-graded labels and reformulation requirements on food and beverage companies, but also plans to offer incentives to industries for adopting these nutri-level standards, as reported by Tempo.co English. This dual strategy creates a tension between strict regulatory demands and voluntary adoption.

While the policy signals a strong commitment to public health, its long-term impact will depend on the delicate balance between regulatory pressure and industry cooperation, potentially leading to a healthier but more complex food market. Indonesia's ambitious color-graded nutri-level labeling and reformulation policy, despite government incentives, is set to fail in significantly curbing high salt, sugar, and fat consumption, as its phased rollout and industry adaptation challenges will be outpaced by deeply ingrained dietary habits.

Understanding Indonesia's Nutri-Level Policy

  • The National Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) will implement Nutri-level or nutritional labeling on beverage products in the initial phase, according to ANTARA News. This initial focus means consumers will first see these new labels on drinks, allowing for a gradual market adjustment.
  • The draft regulation stipulates mandatory inclusion of Nutri-Level and healthier choice logos or HCL4 on product packaging, as detailed by infoalimentario. These standardized logos aim to provide clear, consistent visual information, helping consumers quickly identify products high in specific nutrients.