Food Police at it again

Food Police at it again

Nanny state ideas to further regulate the food industry promoted by visiting academic, Professor Philip James, offer nothing new to the obesity debate and don’t reflect the good work being done by New Zealand food companies to reformulate their products and promote healthy eating, says NZ Food and Grocery Council (FGC), Chief Executive, Katherine Rich.

Mrs Rich says, Professor James has rattled off a predictable list of interventions, bans and regulations to combat obesity, which fall just short of recommending Government issued and approved packed lunches for every New Zealander.

“It’s clear his hosts had not given him an objective brief of what work is being done in New Zealand by FGC members, the Ministry of Health or the New Zealand Government.”

Significant progress has been made over the last 10 years to both reformulate many products and also educate New Zealanders about the importance of healthy eating and exercise.

“Professor James’ views mirror those of many local activists, who want to give the impression that obesity is solely the food industry’s fault and that powerless Kiwis are really force-fed Toulouse geese. It’s nonsense.”

“The general public don’t buy such extreme views. Most will agree that while healthy eating education plays a role, moderate consumption, a balanced diet, and exercise remain the best solutions for dealing with obesity.

“And credit where credit's due. Over the last decade the food industry has worked hard to reformulate many foods lowering fat, sugar and salt. Many obesity activists ignore these advancements, preferring to push for heavy-handed regulation.

“The Professor had clearly been misinformed about work being done in schools. The food industry continues to play a key role in healthy eating education programmes, as well as working with schools to offer a range of healthy foods for school canteens.”

A number of industry players recently launched the nationwide “Eat Wise & Exercise” campaign designed to deliver healthy food messages on the importance of a healthy diet and exercise. Our industry continues to work hard to support the Ministry of Health’s Food and Beverage Classification System, which assists school tuck shops with their menu planning and purchasing.

“The Government, the Ministry of Health, and the food industry are all working hard on measures to address obesity, which are appropriate and effective for the NZ context. Dour finger-waving and telling us we’re all fat because of the food industry doesn’t progress the debate.” Mrs Rich said.

ENDS

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