Joint statement on ‘diabetic foods’ from the Food Standards Agency and Diabetes UK
Diabetes UK and the Food Standards Agency are calling for an end to the use of terms such as ‘diabetic’ or ‘suitable for diabetics’ on food labels.
Some people might see ‘diabetic’ labelling as a stamp of approval, and think that the food is beneficial or even essential for people with diabetes. Also, ‘diabetic’ foods tend to cost more than conventional products, and sugar-free and reduced-sugar versions, so marketing products as ‘diabetic’ can lead people with diabetes to spend more than they need to.
‘Diabetic’ labelling tends to be used on sweets, biscuits and similar foods. The main concern is that labelling these types of foods as ‘diabetic’ undermines important messages about healthy eating. If people do eat foods and drinks containing added sugars they should do so sparingly, as part of a healthy balanced diet. This advice applies to everyone, not just people with diabetes.
Since healthy eating advice is essentially the same for people with diabetes as it is for other people, the idea of special ‘diabetic’ foods is out of date.
Download the full position statement from the related information box
July 2007