Dairy UK welcomes new obesity strategy

Dairy UK said today the dairy industry would be a 'willing and enthusiastic' partner in the Government's new drive to tackle obesity.

Responding to the publication of the Government's strategy 'Healthy Weight, Healthy Lives', Jim Begg, Director General of Dairy UK, said: "I'm glad that government has recognised the role of the food industry in its latest policy aimed at tackling the growing obesity epidemic" .

"Alongside climate change and the environment, obesity is one of the biggest social issues we face.

"The dairy industry been working for years to raise consumer understanding of its products, improve nutritional information and provide a choice of products with various fat contents.

"Scientists have shown repeatedly that dairy products can play a vital role in reducing weight as part of a calorie-controlled diet. For example, research has shown that a good intake of protein can actually produce feelings of satiety that prevent people from overeating.

"Many dairy products contain high levels of nutrients including calcium, phosphorous, protein, fat soluble vitamins and B vitamins, helping to keep bones and teeth strong.

"That's why the dairy industry sees itself as an important part of the solution to global obesity, and will continue to work closely with the government in developing a strategy to combat it.

"However, as Dairy UK's conference on obesity this week heard, nutritionists fear that targeting a food's individual nutrients, such as fat, could be counterproductive to improving public health.

"Attempts to improve diets must also take account of the benefits obtained from nutrient-rich foods, such as dairy. The key is to actively promote a healthy, balanced diet."