Tackling our unhealthy consumption

The Coalition Government is taking decisive action to reduce the unhealthy levels of salt, sugar and saturated fat in the diets of many Australians.

 

The Minister for Rural Health, Senator Bridget McKenzie, said the government-funded Healthy Food Partnership has begun a nationwide consultation process on the proposed Healthy Food Partnership Reformulation Program.

 

“The latest available data shows people consume almost double the World Health Organization’s recommended level (5 grams) of salt, while many of us are also eating too much added sugars and saturated fats,” Minister McKenzie said.

 

“The Reformulation Program is designed to help change food products to reduce sodium, sugars and saturated fat content, which could significantly reduce the current consumption levels and decrease the risk of diet-related chronic disease.”

 

The Healthy Food Partnership involves the Government, the public health sector and the food industry. It tackles diet-related chronic disease, promotes healthy eating and encourages food suppliers, manufacturers and distributors to make positive changes.

 The Healthy Food Partnership is making good progress towards better health outcomes by improving nutrition in the community and encouraging positive dietary choices.

 

“The consultations are an important part of developing the Reformulation Program and we want to know the views of all Australians, whether they are from the food industry, the public health sector or any other interested groups,” Minister McKenzie said.

 

“This is the opportunity for Australians to influence the Government’s plan to combat the potentially harmful levels of salt, sugar and saturated fats in our diets and I encourage all those interested to lodge a submission.”

 

Submissions opened on Monday and can be made through the Department of Health’s website at: https://consultations.health.gov.au/