Vic: Junk food may carry warning labels after Vic Govt summit
MELBOURNE, Aug 17 AAP - Junk food may carry warning labels and fast food meal dealsface regulation as a result of measures to tackle obesity.
The Sunday Herald Sun said the moves were among options to be considered by a Victoriangovernment summit in November to tackle an "epidemic" costing Australia $1.5 billion ayear.
It said a ban on junk food advertising during children's television would also be considered,as would the regulation of promotional toys.
State Health Minister John Thwaites said the summit, at which medical experts wouldaddress a "citizens' jury", would make recommendations which he would take to a healthministers' conference next year.
He said it would consider regulating fast food upgrades which gave bigger serves forlittle extra cost - most likely through warnings, or working with the industry to ensureupgrades and the amount paid were in proportion.
For instance, a small Big Mac meal at McDonald's had 3518 kilojoules, but a large mealhad 4829 - 30 per cent more energy for 20 per cent more in cost.
"We are handing kids a death sentence if they continue to put on weight in this way,"
Mr Thwaites aid of Australia's rising obesity.
The summit will be organised by a group led by former Victorian chief health officerProfessor John Catford, now of Deakin University.
AAP sjg/cjh
KEYWORD: JUNK
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