To increase understanding of the barriers and opportunities involved in undertaking a sugar and calorie reduction programme in different countries
In 2022, WHO Europe will launch the new, voluntary, Member State led Sugar and Calorie Reduction Network to promote healthier diets as well as reduce overweight and obesity levels across the WHO European Region.
The Network will bring together policy-makers and health experts from all 53 of the Region’s Member States, to explore ways to achieve sugar and calorie reduction, respecting national food systems and food traditions, and the regulatory environment. The United Kingdom will lead the Network for the first 3-year term.
The WHO European Office for Prevention and Control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is facilitating this Network based on the success they have achieved through similar networks such as the European Salt Action Network (led by Switzerland) and Reducing Marketing Pressure on Children (led by Portugal).
In a global food market where products are increasingly supplied by the same transnational companies, the Sugar and Calorie Reduction Network will encourage open and transparent ways of working with businesses and help to create a healthier food environment.