The Health Directorate is raising awareness about food labelling, particularly in view of new EU regulations that will come into force in 2014 as part of the food safety week activities.
The regulations include amendments for the origin of most meat products and not just of beef to be listed and make it mandatory to have allergen warnings on non packaged foods.
Speaking at Smart Supermarket in Birkirkara, Health Minister Joe Cassar said it was important to introduce the culture of checking labels on food besides considering the price.
The role of public health, he said, was not just to inspect but especially to teach consumers how to avoid sickness through food.
The committee behind the food safety week, being held for the fourth year, has produced leaflets and a calendar with important information about labelling.
MCAST students are also going around supermarkets with a questionnaire to teach people about food safety.