Soft drinks suppliers could do more to make healthy options available, public health minister Melanie Johnson said this week.
Speaking at the British Soft Drinks Association’s annual luncheon, which was attended by record numbers this year, Johnson called on suppliers to help government in its quest to improve the nation’s health.
She cited a pilot scheme in schools to put healthy drinks in vending machines. One school in Norfolk was selling 1,000 items per week through this but the scheme was having difficulty sourcing suitable healthy drinks that could be vended.
“This is an opportunity for the industry,” said Johnson. “I encourage you to find new ways to make healthy soft drinks a viable option. We want a healthier nation but also one in
which people’s products are still enjoyed.”
BSDA chairman Chris Banks responded that it was time to set the record straight.
BSDA research showed that in the past 20 years, growth had come from drinks without calories. “There has been 135% growth in soft drinks sales but total calories have grown by only 4%. The idea that increased consumption of soft drinks is leading to a rise in obesity is simply wrong. We are adding to the nation’s refreshment without adding to its waistline,” he said.
He added that the £11bn industry was among the most innovative in the grocery sector, with 196 new products and packs launched last year.
“We need to put across our case more strongly. Soft drinks play a positive role in a balanced diet. We can harness the experience we have in listening to consumers and take up the challenge the minister has thrown down to come up with further ideas as to how to promote the benefits of a healthy diet and lifestyle.”
Siân Harrington
Speaking at the British Soft Drinks Association’s annual luncheon, which was attended by record numbers this year, Johnson called on suppliers to help government in its quest to improve the nation’s health.
She cited a pilot scheme in schools to put healthy drinks in vending machines. One school in Norfolk was selling 1,000 items per week through this but the scheme was having difficulty sourcing suitable healthy drinks that could be vended.
“This is an opportunity for the industry,” said Johnson. “I encourage you to find new ways to make healthy soft drinks a viable option. We want a healthier nation but also one in
which people’s products are still enjoyed.”
BSDA chairman Chris Banks responded that it was time to set the record straight.
BSDA research showed that in the past 20 years, growth had come from drinks without calories. “There has been 135% growth in soft drinks sales but total calories have grown by only 4%. The idea that increased consumption of soft drinks is leading to a rise in obesity is simply wrong. We are adding to the nation’s refreshment without adding to its waistline,” he said.
He added that the £11bn industry was among the most innovative in the grocery sector, with 196 new products and packs launched last year.
“We need to put across our case more strongly. Soft drinks play a positive role in a balanced diet. We can harness the experience we have in listening to consumers and take up the challenge the minister has thrown down to come up with further ideas as to how to promote the benefits of a healthy diet and lifestyle.”
Siân Harrington
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