Obesity
According to NHS Digital, a survey conducted in 2020 found that 67% of adult men in England were obese/overweight, and 60% of women were as well. The alarming number of obese individuals, cocerns professionals across the country. Some of the prominent health risks that accompany obesity include high blood pressure, poor cholesterol levels, Type 2 diabetes, strokes, coronary heart disease, overall body pain, and much more. The CDC states that not only does obesity decrease someone’s quality of life, it heightens the probability of death as well. The CDC also includes obesity on the list of people that are in the high-risk category of experiencing severe illness from COVID-19.
Taking Action
Considering obesity is a prevailing issue that has just worsened over time, England has become proactive in their fight against it. One of the new laws set in place prohibits chain grocery stores from creating “value deals” on foods high in sugar, fat, sodium, etc. For example, chocolate bars will no longer be able to have sales such as 2 for $3. Refills on drinks with a high sugar content will be banned. Unhealthy foods cannot be placed in checkout lines, front of aisles, and other prominent locations in a grocery store anymore. In addition, England is attempting to require restaurants to include calorie labels on their menu.
Problems with the Initiative
Although these changes will ultimately help the majority of England's population that are struggling with obesity, there are flaws in the system. Chief Operating Officer, Tim Rycoft voices, “The proposed restrictions will not only increase the cost of food for families but it will have harsh economic impacts for food and drink manufacturers who are already bracing themselves for the new costs of Brexit and the repercussions of the global pandemic." Aside from potential economic hardships, these new restrictions could also become problematic for people suffering from eating disorders or other mental obstacles. Unhealthy foods will not be eliminated, but its accessibility will be decreased and caloric information will increase. In the end, England’s intentions are to decrease obesity hospitalization rates and make the overall country healthier, but there are some potential problems that could arise from these new decisions.
Sources
https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/statistics-o n-obesity-physical-activity-and-diet/england-2020/part-3-adult-obesity-copy https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/effects/index.html
https://cnnphilippines.com/world/2020/12/29/England-junk-food-crackdown. html
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