The Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) has criticised the South Australian Health Department’s ban on foods high in fat, sugar or salt at certain events, saying it is a “naïve” approach to tackling Australia’s obesity issue.
The move by S.A Health involves banning pies, pasties, sausages and soft drinks from department events and meetings.
AFGC Deputy Chief Executive Dr Geoffrey Annison said education was the key to helping people understand the importance of a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
“This bureaucratic and naive approach to Australia’s obesity issue ignores the notion of helping to motivate consumers about making better choices to support a healthier life,” Dr Annison said.
“While we must not underestimate the public health challenges that obesity and chronic health issues present, heavy-handed approaches are a band-aid solution and don’t educate consumers about improving their food choices.
“Industry welcomes the voice of reason in this debate from medical professionals who have highlighted that the major responsibility is about educating people that all foods eaten in moderation can form part of a nutritious and balanced diet.”