FSAI Welcomes National Obesity Policy

26 Sep 2016 --- The Chief Executive of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) Dr Pamela Byrne has stated that the national Obesity Policy and Action Plan 2016-2025 is a significant policy strategy to tackle the prevalence of overweight and obesity.

It sets out a cross-sectoral approach with multiple measures to address this growing health issue. As a first national policy to tackle obesity through a whole society approach in Ireland, it offers an unprecedented opportunity to create a healthier nation and the FSAI looks forward to playing its part in its success.

The FSAI acknowledges its role as a leader and partner with the Department of Health and other State agencies in a range of specific actions and measures outlined in the policy. In particular, these include applying its scientific and specialist acumen to undertake a review of EU consumer information labeling of foods and its application in the Irish market; agreeing food industry reformulation targets and reviewing progress; monitoring compliance with the WHO Code of Practice on the Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes; partnering with the Department of Health and other bodies to develop a code of practice for food and beverages promotion, marketing and sponsorship and; providing expert input into the development of calorie posting legislation.