November 30, 2015

expert reaction to first report from Commons Health Committee on tackling childhood obesity, ‘Childhood obesity – brave and bold action’

The House of Commons Health Committee has produced a report into the scale and consequences of childhood obesity.

The SMC has produced a Factsheet on sugar and health.

Dr Ian Johnson, Emeritus Fellow at the Institute of Food Research, said:

“This is a comprehensive and well-argued report that builds upon this year’s previous publications from SACN and Public Health England. It provides a compelling case for a range of measures designed to encourage the adoption of healthier dietary patterns in the UK, with a view to reducing the long-term risk of obesity-related diseases.

“Speaking personally, I would strongly support the introduction of a hypothecated tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, provided that it is accompanied by measures to enable a proper evidence-based assessment of its effectiveness.”

*http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201516/cmselect/cmhealth/465/465.pdf

Declared interests

Dr Ian Johnson: IJ was an external member of the SACN Working Group on Dietary Carbohydrates and Health, and is currently a member of the Scientific Advisory Committee of the British Nutrition Foundation.  He currently holds no research grants and has no commercial affiliations.