LONDON (Reuters) – Britain unveiled plans to tackle an “obesity time bomb” on Monday, banning television and online ads for junk food before 9 p.m. M.
FILE PHOTO: British Prime Minister Boris Johnson leaves Downing Street in London, Great Britain on July 22, 2020. REUTERS / Hannah Mckay / File Photo
Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who has lost weight since he was in intensive care with COVID-19, wants to fight obesity after research showed that obese or overweight people are at increased risk of death or serious disease from the coronavirus. .
Last month, he said Britain was fatter than most European countries apart from Malta, and his government described a priority as “tackling the obesity time bomb.”
Abandoning its previous stance as an unbeliever of the “babysitting” policy, its government is announcing a new push to help people “take control of their own future by losing weight, staying active, and adopting a more healthy”.
Along with banning ads before 9 p.m. M. (2000 GMT), food offerings and plans for calorie content of meals to be displayed on menus, the government will also launch a consultation on the display of calories in alcohol.
“Losing weight is difficult, but with a few small changes we can all feel fitter and healthier,” Johnson said in a statement.
“If we all do our part, we can reduce our health risks and protect ourselves against coronavirus, in addition to taking pressure off the NHS (National Health Service).”
With over 60% of adults in Britain considered overweight or obese, according to Public Health England, the coronavirus crisis has put the obesity problem at the forefront of government thinking, with a “Better Health” campaign launched along with the new measures.
Weight management services will be expanded in the NHS, and Public Health England will call on people to adopt a healthier lifestyle and lose weight if necessary, supported by a range of evidence-based tools and applications. .
“Everyone knows how difficult it can be to lose weight, so we are taking bold steps to help everyone in need,” said Health Minister Matt Hancock.
“To help support people, we need to reduce useless influences like promotions and ads that affect what you buy and what you eat. Together, supported by an inspiring campaign and smart new tools, the country will eat healthy and lose weight. ”
Report by Elizabeth Piper. Edited by Jane Merriman
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