Investigating nutrition information and marketing strategies of packaged food products in the Tanzanian market

Abstract

Tanzania faces a complex nutrition challenge, with rising rates of malnutrition and nutrition-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). A significant driver of this trend is the growing availability of ultra-processed packaged foods, which are often high in unhealthy ingredients, poorly labeled, and aggressively marketed. This lack of transparency makes it incredibly difficult for consumers to make healthy choices. This cross-sectional study analysed 5243 packaged foods from 19 purposively selected retail outlets in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar. Twenty-eight percent of the products assessed lack a nutrition information panel or ingredients list. The vast majority of items, over 82 % were classified as ultra-processed, and over 90 % contained at least one nutrient of concern, such as high levels of fat, sugar, or sodium. The research also highlighted the pervasive use of on-package marketing, which was present on 87 % of products and often targeted children. These findings reveal significant weaknesses in Tanzania's current food regulations. Urgent policy interventions are needed to standardize and improve nutrition labeling, implement clear and easy-to-read front-of-package labels, and restrict marketing practices, especially those aimed at children. Such measures, guided by an evidence-based nutrient profile model, are critical for promoting a healthier food environment.