GMA Refutes Need for Consumer Advocate¿s Food Guidelines
Washington, D.C. – In response to the Center for Science in the Public Interest’s (CSPI) call earlier this week for restrictions on consumers’ food choices, the Grocery Manufacturers of America (GMA) labeled the consumer group’s recommendations as unecessary.
"Food and beverage manufacturers are committed to responsible marketing, especially when it comes to children. We have an important role to play in addressing obesity, and we are doing our part by introducing a growing number of ‘better-for-you’ foods, offering a variety of smaller package sizes and supporting enhanced nutrition labeling," said GMA.
Noting there is no question that "obesity is a serious societal issue with major health implications," GMA said "CSPI misses the point" by narrowly focusing on advertising and marketing. "Effective solutions must incorporate sound nutrition, increased physical activity, consumer and parent education, and community support," the trade group said. "Above all, the focus should be on giving parents the information they need to ensure their children eat a nutritionally-balanced diet and get the right amount of physical activity."
GMA further stated its board of directors has also issued guidelines for marketing practices, which are reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure they meet the highest possible standards – particularly for products that appeal to children.
"Food and beverage manufacturers are committed to responsible marketing, especially when it comes to children. We have an important role to play in addressing obesity, and we are doing our part by introducing a growing number of ‘better-for-you’ foods, offering a variety of smaller package sizes and supporting enhanced nutrition labeling," said GMA.
Noting there is no question that "obesity is a serious societal issue with major health implications," GMA said "CSPI misses the point" by narrowly focusing on advertising and marketing. "Effective solutions must incorporate sound nutrition, increased physical activity, consumer and parent education, and community support," the trade group said. "Above all, the focus should be on giving parents the information they need to ensure their children eat a nutritionally-balanced diet and get the right amount of physical activity."
GMA further stated its board of directors has also issued guidelines for marketing practices, which are reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure they meet the highest possible standards – particularly for products that appeal to children.