The Healthiness of Packaged Food & Beverage Products in Egypt
A first detailed look report at the healthiness of Egypt’s packaged food and beverages, revealing that most products are high in sugar, salt, and fats.
Highlights
This report is the first detailed look at the healthiness of Egypt’s packaged food and beverages, revealing that most products are high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. Nutrient profile models show that the majority of packaged food and drinks in Egypt are unhealthy, with two-thirds of packaged foods exceeding global sodium limits. Many products lack clear nutrition labels, with only 41% meeting basic international labeling standards, making it hard for consumers to make informed choices. There has been a 37% increase in the volume sales of sugar-sweetened beverages over the last 10 years in Egypt. The rise in sales of unhealthy packaged foods, despite economic challenges, and the lack of regulation around marketing to children are contributing to rising obesity rates in both adults and children. The report recommends stronger food labeling laws, limits on sodium in common foods like bread and cheese, taxes on sugary drinks, and more regular monitoring of both packaged and fast foods to improve public health and protect children’s right to good nutrition.
