“It’s a real worry that this new data shows that some children, who are already an unhealthy weight, eat the equivalent of an extra meal a day in calories – resulting in extra weight gain and setting them up for future health problem. Of course we all need to eat calories, but with many everyday products containing high levels of sugar and saturated fat, it’s all too easy to eat more calories than we actually need.
“The food industry absolutely must play its part in tackling obesity, and through adapting recipes and reducing over-sized portions, can make it much easier for families to make healthier choices. It’s important that Government keeps a check on industry to ensure these targets are being met – and if not, takes tough measures to enforce action.”