Packaged food: convenience on the go!
It has been well documented that the packaging of food is critical for the protection of the health of consumers. Some foods, especially perishables, if not packaged properly, can make you sick.
Packaged food is all about convenience. Packaging ensures preservation of the quality of fresh and processed foods and extends shelf life. It protects food from contamination and also from scratches, product abrasion, oxidation, moisture transfer, etc. This means that you can enjoy your favourite fruit or vegetable off-season, like canned ackee, mangoes, peaches, etc.
When you buy:
- Don't buy products you think are excessively or deceptively wrapped. Complain to your supermarket or the manufacturer and contact consumer Organisations.
- Most supermarkets have customer comment boxes, or you can contact manufacturer customer care numbers on the back of packets.
- Large packets might not necessarily mean more food. take a close look at the weight when you're shopping. Some products like breakfast cereals are sold by weight, not volume.
- Compare the weight, volume or number of servings with packs of similar products.
- Buying loose fruit and vegetable is often cheaper; you can buy the quantity that you require. Produce is often cheaper when bought this way.
- If you buy pre- cooked meals, ensure that the package is properly sealed.
- Some packaging can be reused over and over, preventing the need to buy more. Refill empty drink bottles when you're going out and carry plastic bags when you go shopping, especially at the market.
DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN BRANDS
- Always compare brands to and compare the ingredients. select the food with the greater amount of desirable ingredients.
- be aware of misleading claims on food labels and do not hesitate to point it out to the store management.
Consumers must ensure that:
- on a package there are pictures and information about the product.
- The packaged product has the amount of meat, fruits, vegetables, wholegrains or is fortified with vitamins that it claims.
Example: Two different brands of spaghetti sauce may list ingredients as water and tomatoes. One brand might contain 50 per cent water and 40 per cent tomatoes, while the other brand might contain 70 per cent water and 20 per cent tomatoes.
GOOD TO REMEMBER:
- When eating out, try to order a half portion when possible. If the restaurant does not offer that option, take a doggie bag home for another meal.
- Try not to eat while watching television or reading a book. Your concentration will be divided and you'll end up eating more.
- Have a glass of water before meals; you will not have the urge to overeat.