Are there any successful policies and programs to fight overweight and obesity? USCIB responded to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Global Forum request for answers to this important question.
“All facets of society, including the private sector, have an important role to play in helping to reduce the incidence and burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs),” USCIB said in comments submitted to the FAO on June 30. “This view is supported by World Health Organization (WHO) and OECD strategies recognizing that NCD solutions require a whole-of-society approach, multi-sectoral actions, and collaboration among governments, civil society and the private sector. Given the complex and multi-factorial nature of NCDs, it is essential that all stakeholders work together to develop holistic, sustainable solutions.”
The comments note that the food and beverage industry’s efforts to prevent NCDs are guided by sound, science-based polices that include:
- Providing a range of nutritious product choices and marketing them in ways that promote healthy lifestyles
- Improving awareness and understanding of nutrition and energy balance
- Communicating clearly through labeling, packaging, websites, brochures, and in-store communications to enable consumers to make informed choices
- Undertaking responsible advertising practices, taking into account the special needs of children
- Emphasizing the importance of achieving a balance throughout life of physical activity and nutrition
- Partnering with other stakeholders in these endeavors.
The comments also list several examples of voluntary industry efforts that have contributed to the fight against obesity and other NCDs.
