1.Assessment of sodium labelling compliance and Healthier Choice Logo nutrient criteria alignment in processed and ultra-processed foods in Malaysia
Qiao Yi Ng ; Azrina Azlan ; Lu Ying Khoo
Malaysian Journal of Nutrition 2026;32(No. 2):205-216
Introduction: Malaysian adults consume an average of 2892 mg of sodium daily, exceeding
the recommended <2000 mg/day. In response, Malaysia implemented mandatory sodium
labelling in 2022; however, compliance with regulatory limits remains uncertain, as
discrepancies between laboratory-analysed and label-declared sodium values have been
reported internationally. Given the limited local evidence, this study examined sodium
labelling compliance in selected processed and ultra-processed foods. Methods: A total of
52 products, including salted packaged nuts, commercially packaged biscuits, and canned
fish, of which 8 bore the Healthier Choice Logo (HCL), were analysed. Sodium content was
determined using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy, following dry ashing and nitric
acid digestion. Compliance was assessed using the <120% regulatory tolerance criterion,
primarily applied for enforcement purposes. Results: Only three out of the eight products
(37.5%) met the regulatory tolerance criterion for sodium labelling compliance: almond
(94.8 vs. 103.6 mg/100 g; label-declared vs. laboratory-analysed sodium), raisin biscuit
(245.4 vs. 286.8 mg/100 g), and canned mackerel in tomato sauce (337.0 vs. 365.6 mg/100
g). The remaining products (62.5%) had higher laboratory-analysed sodium than declared.
Sodium content did not differ significantly across categories. HCL products generally had
lower sodium content than non-HCL products across all categories, although differences
were not statistically significant for sweet cookies and canned fish. As HCL certification is
voluntary, non-HCL products were also assessed against HCL nutrient criteria; none met
all criteria. Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for more rigorous regulatory
enforcement and periodic laboratory verification to ensure sodium labelling compliance in
Malaysia.


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