WE DON'T READ THE FOOD LABELS: AN INVESTIGATIVE NEWS STORY ON SINGAPOREANS' MISCONCEPTIONS OF NUTRITION LABELS AND WHY THAT IS CONCERNING

Abstract

My investigative journalism thesis aims to fulfil a public service role of journalism by raising awareness of the correct interpretations of government-initiated nutrition labels in Singapore. The final product, which involves three news articles, is especially important given the degree of misinformation surrounding labels on packaged food and their long-term health consequences within the local population. For the scope of the articles, two Singapore government-mandated symbols: Nutri-Grade and Healthier Choice stickers, and the levels of their understanding were studied. In terms of long-term health consequences, the articles focus on diabetes, as it is the most severe of all chronic diseases in Singapore (Ministry of Health, 2017). The main article began with startling statistics that highlighted the poor level of nutrition literacy in Singapore. The project utilises a self-administered online survey to gain insights into Singaporean’s level of existing nutrition knowledge and their purchasing habits. The survey results are analysed by Singapore-accredited dieticians to gain insight into the health implications of such decision-making. Results from the survey, along with comments from dieticians form the basis of the reporting for the main investigative story. The investigative article was successful in correcting misconceptions about Nutri Grade and raising awareness of the importance of mindful food purchasing. The supporting articles were successful in raising awareness about diabetes, an issue Singapore’s government wants to tackle with Nutri-Grade.