‘Suitable for Diabetics’ Labels Off The Shelves, Diabetes UK Welcomes the Change
21 Jul 2016 --- A change in food regulation means that from today manufacturers will no longer be able to label food as ‘diabetic’ or ‘suitable for diabetics’. Diabetes UK has welcomed the change and has lobbied for over 30 years for the end of the labels which incorrectly imply a health benefit for people with diabetes and have been seen as essential over mainstream alternatives.
However, analysis has found that because many of the products carrying the label – including jams, ice creams, cakes, biscuits and chocolates – contained polyols, they were not any lower in fat or calories compared to the standard products, so could lead to weight gain. They were also often more expensive than regular products.
Diabetes UK is advising people to check ingredient labels for polyols – a group of sweeteners including sorbitol, maltitol, xylitol, isomalt and mannitol which were often used in foods labelled as ‘suitable for diabetics’ – and to be aware that excessive consumption of some products could lead to diarrhoea and flatulence.
Natasha Marsland, Senior Clinical Advisor at Diabetes UK, said: “It is great news that this label has gone from our shelves. For too long, people with diabetes and well-meaning friends and relatives have been misled into buying products they think would benefit diabetes management. People with diabetes can meet their nutritional needs from everyday foods, just like people without diabetes.
“However, while the ‘suitable for diabetic’ label is now gone, there are still some products on sale which contain polyols. People should be aware that some of these products are higher in calories, can cost more, and can also have a laxative effect if you eat lots of them. People who are taking insulin and carbohydrate counting should be mindful that they may need less insulin, as not all the carbohydrate from polyols is absorbed. As ever, it pays to check the label.”
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