Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 March 2012
529 Deputy Derek Keating asked the Minister for Health the contribution the food industry, food processing companies and food manufacturers can make to deal with the issue of obesity in children; his views that legislation or regulation is needed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13523/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn 2011, the Special Action Group on Obesity (SAGO) was established, comprising key stakeholders, and chaired by the Department of Health. The group includes a representative from the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, the Department of Education and Skills, the Health Service Executive, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland and Safefood. It focuses on a specific range of measures including Healthy Eating Guidelines for the Irish population, restricting the marketing of food and drink high in fat, sugar or salt to children, nutritional labelling, calorie posting on restaurant menus, the promotion of physical activity and the detection and treatment of obesity. Many of these measures do not require legislation, however, the group will consider the need for legislation, if appropriate.
SAGO identified calorie posting on restaurant and coffee shop menus as one of the issues which could have a positive impact in addressing the problem of our rising levels of overweight and obesity and as a means of educating the general public on the calorie content of food portions. Following in the footsteps of the US and the UK, in October 2011, Fast Food chains operating in Ireland were written to requesting that they introduce calorie posting in their restaurants immediately. A consultation process involving the FSAI has recently been completed to inform the next steps in the process.
The Food and Drink Industry Ireland and its members have met with the Minister and with the Special Action Group on Obesity to discuss the Minister's action priorities.
A Health Impact Assessment will be initiated on the potential effects of a tax on Sugar Sweetened Drinks which will provide a strong evidence base for such a tax. The Institute of Public Health has agreed to lead the HIA Project Group and the WHO Europe has indicated that their expertise will be available to the Department.
