CANBERRA, Aug. 19 (Xinhua) -- A new research program will examine policies aimed at reducing Australians' consumption of ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks as obesity and diet-related chronic disease place growing pressure on the health system.
The five-year program, funded by a National Health and Medical Research Council Investigator Grant, will generate evidence to inform policy decisions relating to widespread availability and marketing of such foods and drinks, according to a statement released Wednesday by the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute.
Two in three Australian adults are living with overweight or obesity, while ultra-processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages account for 42 percent of Australians' diets, the statement said.
"Many of these products are designed, marketed and packaged in ways that encourage overconsumption," said Professor Caroline Miller, director of the research institute's health policy center, noting the current food environment makes informed choices difficult, underscoring the need for policies that support healthier choices.
A key focus of the research will involve evaluating the effectiveness of front-of-pack warning labels in reducing consumption of high-sugar products, which can help people "better understand what they're consuming and prompt healthier choices," Miller said.
The program will also provide up-to-date data on Australians' consumption patterns and public views on possible policy responses, including labelling, regulation and other interventions, said researchers, adding they will work closely with policymakers to ensure findings are translated into practical, evidence-based recommendations. ■
