Kidney Foundation: ‘Food industry sabotages healthy choices’

Our pursuit of health is evident. Yet, why do we find it continually challenging to consistently make healthy food choices? According to recent data, 50% of the Dutch population is overweight or obese, escalating the risk of chronic diseases, including kidney ailments. The Kidney Foundation, backed by three other health organizations, pinpoints the omnipresent offerings and marketing of unhealthy foods as a significant factor.

The Kidney Foundation recently launched a campaign, championed by renowned Dutch celebrities, aiming to heighten the Netherlands' awareness of their food choices. In the documentary series "In Search of Health," Renze Klamer, Hanna Verboom, and Fidan Ekiz pose the pressing question to stakeholders from various sectors: “Why is healthy eating and drinking so tough?”

Unconsciously Tempted

Research from the Alliance for Nutrition for a Healthy Generation (AVGG), an arm of the Kidney Foundation, reveals that 80% of supermarket food offerings are unhealthy. Almost half (48%) of Dutch adults believe that food and drink advertisements don't sway their choices. Yet, the food industry annually invests a staggering 1.6 billion euros in advertising, with 80% directed towards unhealthy products. Regrettably, children are the primary target of these unhealthy advertisements.

Diena Halbertsma, chairperson of AVGG, emphasizes that consumers often feel they have complete control over their food choices. However, the prevailing food availability and marketing strategies suggest otherwise. She advocates for increased transparency and regulation, including prohibiting child marketing for unhealthy products and tax incentives for healthier choices like fruits and vegetables. After all, our current eating habits might lead to a significant surge in chronic illnesses in society.

The AVGG now urgently calls on supermarkets, food producers, advertisers, and policymakers: make healthy eating and drinking simple! Alongside the documentary series 'Op zoek naar Gezond', further information and answers to the question, "why is healthy eating and drinking so hard?" can be found.

Nierstichting.nl