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| Dahlia Elianarni S.TP., M.Sc., as a lecturer in Food Technology Science at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) |
The existence of accurate and detailed information on food product packaging should not be underestimated. Consumers nowadays should be more intelligent and aware of what they consume. It was conveyed by Dahlia Elianarni S.TP., M.Sc., as a lecturer in Food Technology Science at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM).
"The manufacturer have the responsibility to give the information that reliable and appropriate information," she emphasized.
The benefit of having information on the packaging is to realize the consumer's right to feel safe when consuming the product. Same as information regarding expiration dates. Both should get more attention because they are related to product quality. "Expiry dates on food products can be represented with various terms and formats depending on the type of product and region," added Dahlia.
There are several different expiration date formats. The first is the expiry date. The date marks the last time a product can be used or consumed. After this date, the product is no longer considered safe or good quality.
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Next is the last use date, a format usually used for perishable products, such as fresh dairy products, meat, and other fresh produce. It indicates the last day the product should be consumed.
The "best before" date is generally found on dry and perishable food products. It indicates when the product is expected to remain in the best flavour, aroma, and texture condition. However, the product can still be safely consumed after this date.
"Other common features include the 'use by' date, which is similar to the 'best before' date. This date indicates the date at what is considered the best in terms of quality and safety. After this date, the product may start to lose its quality or become less safe for consumption," she said.
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In addition, the composition information on a product's packaging is a valuable guide for consumers. By knowing the amount of calories, fat, carbohydrates, protein and vitamins in a product, consumers can adjust their diet according to their body's needs. It can reduce the risk of obesity and health problems.
The information is transparency from the producer about where the raw materials come from, how the product is processed, and whether the production process meets safety standards. Not only does this information build credibility, but it also helps consumers choose products that are compatible with their values.
Dahlia said that currently, various applications can be used to determine the appropriate amount of food consumption for the body. Some are MyFitnessPal or Cronometer, which provides a nutrition label calculator. It allows a person to input information from the food product label and calculate the consumption amount and nutritional value based on the needed portion.
Finally, Dahlia emphasized that food product packaging is vital to consumer safety. The information on the packaging also serves as an educational tool. Instructions on properly storing and the optimal way of consumption help consumers maximize the product's benefits. "It also helps in efforts to prevent food waste, which has a huge impact on the environment," she concluded. (Put/Rev/Wil)
