Junk food advocacy. Countering the industry

Abstract

Abstract Background The junk food and alcohol industries have taken a page from the tobacco industry play book in an attempt to resist regulation through delay, self-regulation and effective lobbying. The junk food industry internationally is constantly seeking to increase sales at a time when the obesity crisis continues to grow. The industry thrives through widespread marketing with a particular focus on children. Methods An assessment of the number of lobbyists engaged to influence members of Parliament in Australia is being conducted to understand attempts to influence policy. This follows a scan of the lobbyists' register by Daube et al in 2018 that found the junk food industry had 33 direct and 13 indirect lobbyists. A re-examination of the register in 2020 is expected to reveal an increase in these numbers as international junk food companies become more concerned about regulation by government in areas such as front of pack labelling and marketing. There will also be an examination of the State and Territory registers in an attempt to understand the extent of influence in all governments across Australia. Discussion This examination is focused on the Australian Parliament/s. However, the message will be similar world-wide. Many companies have been challenged about their approaches to marketing and the sales of junk food. However, despite some attempt at corporate responsibility (Ronald McDonald House), they continue to sell their products to the detriment of community health. Presentation The presentation will focus on the importance and methods of countering the efforts of industry to increase availability of junk food by opposing regulation. It will also provide a series of steps that public health advocates can take in order to persuade governments of the importance of protecting community health through appropriate regulation of the marketing and sales of junk food. Key messages Junk food industry employs multiple lobbyists to resist regulatory reform. There are tools available for public health advocates to counter this influence.