Octagons are an information and prevention measure for the consumer. They are found in all industrialized foods that are sold in Peru on a mandatory basis since June 17, 2019, allowing people to make an informed and conscious purchase. Next, Karyn Reyna, nutritionist at Clinica Ricardo Palma, gives us more information on this topic.

What do they indicate?

They warn the consumer if the content of the product exceeds the parameters established by science for sodium, sugar, saturated fat or trans-fat. However, if a product does not have octagons, it does not mean that it is healthy, it may be because it does not reach the parameters established for its mandatory use.

What are the octagons used in Peru?

• High in saturated fat
  It warns that a constant consumption of these products will cause an increase in cholesterol, generating a risk of heart attack of stroke.
• High in sugar
  It means that if you eat foods such as soft drinks, sweets, among others; body fat will increase, which can lead to diseases such as diabetes mellitus, fatty liver and insulin resistance
• High in Sodium
  If products containing this octagon are consumed in excess, it can cause high blood pressure, heart and kidney failure.
• Contains Trans fats
  The consumption of ultra-refined products can cause allergies, resistance to antibiotics, kidney damage, among others.

It is important to properly dose the consumption of these foods, in addition to analyzing the labels and seeing if the product is within the optimal nutritional recommendations for responsible consumption.

Karyn Reyna
Nutritionist at Clínica Ricardo Palma