The Green Party wants a well-resourced Food Safety Authority established.
Food safety and good nutrition resources must receive significantly increased resources and status in the next
government if we are to improve the nation's health, Green Party Co-Leader Rod Donald told a Dunedin public meeting on
health issues today.
A Food Safety Authority would be responsible for food safety, good nutrition, promoting healthy diets, monitoring food
additives and pesticide residues, and the advertising of junk food targeted at children.
"It has taken many years to promote a smoke-free environment, including overcoming the strength of the tobacco
companies. It may take a while to promote organic food and to overcome the power of the Coca Colas and the Monsantos of
this world, but the Green Party believes that is the main route to a healthy nation," Mr Donald said.
"It is absurd that there are only four people in the Ministry of Health who are responsible for food safety issues and
good nutrition for the whole country along with a few officials in MAF who have some limited responsibility for food
safety. Compare that with staff levels in other government departments.
"The evidence is overwhelming that more than half of cancers are caused or aggravated by environmental factors, and that
illnesses such as heart disease, obesity, colitis etc, as well as behavioural problems, crime and a general low level of
well-being all have a strong dietary component," Mr Donald said.
"The Food Authority could play a vital role in improving the well-being of all New Zealanders."
It was important medical curricula in Medical Schools emphasised preventative medicine and environmental health.
Mr Donald said doctors, particularly general practitioners, can play a pivotal role in educating families on the value
of safe food.
Rod Donald: 025 507 183