The World Health Organisation (WHO) has chosen the UK to lead a new Sugar and Calorie Reduction Network to take global action on sugar and calorie reduction.

Speaking at the WHO Regional Committee for Europe on Monday 13 September, the Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty announced the formation of the network, which will work with countries across Europe to reduce sugar and calorie intake. The WHO’s EU region covers around 50 countries, with a much wider reach than the European Commission’s remit.

The UK has agreed to use its world-leading expertise in domestic sugar and calorie reduction to support its EU neighbours. To tackle the global obesity rates, work in the food and drink industry will take place to reduce the sugar content in products high in fat, salt and sugar (HFSS).

In a global market where food is increasingly supplies by the same international companies, collective action on reducing sugar and calories will galvanised the food industry to take greater action. The network’s member states will share learning and technical expertise to encourage manufacturers to reformulate products by cutting the amount of sugar, and therefore calories, in food and drinks to ensure they are healthier.

Health and Social Care Secretary, Sajid Javid said:

“It’s a testament to the success of our pioneering work in the UK to help people eat more healthily that we have been chosen to lead this programme.

“We will work closely with our European partners to challenge the food industry to reduce sugar and calories in its products – reducing obesity, relieving pressure on health services and increasing our resilience to COVID-19 and any future pandemics.”

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