UK unveils new measures to halve childhood obesity by 2030

The UK’s Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has announced a new initiative that aims to reduce the prevalence of childhood obesity within the country by 50% by 2030.

DHSC’s latest set of proposals builds on the first stage of the government’s childhood obesity strategy and includes preventing stores from displaying unhealthy food at checkouts or including it in buy-one-get-one-free deals.

Additionally, DHSC is planning consultations for the introduction of clear and consistent calorie labelling on menus in restaurants, cafés and takeaways in order to help parents make more informed choices.

UK Secretary of State for Health Jeremy Hunt said: “It is near impossible to shield children from exposure to unhealthy foods.

“Parents are asking for help, we know that over three-quarters of parents find offers for sugary sweets and snacks at checkouts annoying.

“It’s our job to give power to parents to make healthier choices and to make their life easier in doing so.

“The cost of obesity, both on individual lives and our NHS, is too great to ignore.

“Today we are taking steps to ensure that by 2030, children from all backgrounds have the help they need for a healthier, more active start in life.”

DHSC is also planning to carry out consultations related to prohibiting the sale of harmful, caffeine-laden energy drinks to children.

The second chapter of the plan will also encourage every primary school to adopt a daily ‘active mile’ initiative such as the Daily Mile.

Public Health Minister Steve Brine said: “One in three children are now overweight or obese by the time they leave primary school.

“Overconsumption, combined with reduced activity, is having a catastrophic effect on our children’s health.

“Our updated plan will put parents in charge, providing more information and support.

“Our aim is to help families make healthier choices, which will in turn provide a better chance at a longer, healthier life for our children.”

In addition, the government is calling on industry to recognise the harm that adverts for foods high in fat, sugar and salt can cause to young people.