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 was reviewed independent panel of experts which
recommended the removal of the protein cap in autumn 2008. On 25 March, the FSA
Board discussed the nutrient profiling model and following a lengthy debate,
the
Board decided that the model's protein cap should remain in place and should
not
be reviewed for another five years.
More Information
Last reviewed: 20 Apr 2009