Nutrient Profiling Model
Ofcom, the independent regulator for the broadcast industry, has brought in
restrictions to control the advertising of food and drink in and around television
shows made for children, or likely to be
particularly popular with children.
These
measures are designed to help address
concerns
about rising levels of
childhood
obesity and encourage healthy eating.
The
restrictions are enforced by using a 'nutrient profiling model',
developed by the Food Standards Agency (FSA). This model measures the levels
of fruit, vegetables and certain nutrients in products. Those deemed to be high
in saturated fat, salt
and sugar cannot be advertised around children's TV
programmes.
FDF has serious concerns about the nutrient profiling model developed for this
purpose by the FSA. The approach only looks at a very narrow snapshot of a
product's nutritional value and classifies some foods which are major contributors of
important vitamins and minerals to children's diets, such as cheese and breakfast
cereals, as 'unhealthy'. It also measures all foods using a 100g portion, when
many products are eaten by children in far smaller portion sizes.
The nutrient profiling model is currently being reviewed by an independent panel
of experts. FDF hopes the panel members will consider these important flaws, and
others, in the model and propose changes to the system to take account of the
importance of children eating a balanced diet containing a wide range of food
types.
More Information
Last reviewed: 16 May 2008