'We must make healthy options more attainable'

29th July 2009, 11:41am

The Food Standards Agency has launched a consultation on its plans to introduce voluntary recommendations for food manufacturers for reductions in saturated fat and added sugar.

The proposals will also see smaller single-portion sizes, particularly in biscuits, cakes, pastries, buns, chocolate confectionery and soft drinks, more readily available.
Bigger marketing budgets allocated to healthier options are also part of the plans.

Gill Fine, director of Consumer Choice and Dietary Health at the FSA, said: "We recognise the excellent work already achieved by some food businesses to make healthier eating easier. But to make even greater progress it's important that everybody gets behind our recommendations on saturated fat, added sugar and portion sizes.

"The food industry regularly reviews its ingredients and processes, as well as portion sizes, and the aim of this proposal is to encourage them to consider how they can play their part in improving public health and helping consumers to maintain a healthy weight."

Julian Hunt, Food and Drink Federation (FDF) director of communications, responded by saying: "FDF's members have been rising to this particular challenge for a number of years – and are now leading the world when it comes to developing new products, and refreshing old favourites, so that they are lower in saturated fat.

"We are pleased that the FSA has recognised the considerable work undertaken by our members. But we are disappointed that it appears to remain committed to setting arbitrary targets for specific nutrients in certain foods, rather than focusing on the need for everyone to achieve a balanced diet and lifestyle."

Related Articles:

• 23 Jul 2009 - New survey reveals salt content varies across the world
• 13 Jul 2009 - Catering outlets in Surrey urged to cut down on fat
• 21 May 2009 - More reaction to FSA salt targets
• 21 May 2009 - FSA publishes consumer attitudes survey
• 12 May 2009 - More catering companies put healthy eating on the menu
• 12 Mar 2009 - Celebrity chefs serve up dishes of saturated fat

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