Health experts are raising serious concerns about the composition of Australia's newly formed National Food Council, warning that heavy representation from farming and food production industries could compromise public health objectives.
Industry Dominance in Food Policy
The federal government announced the appointment of the National Food Council on Friday, with nine of the eleven members representing agribusinesses or agricultural peak bodies. Dr Kim Anastasiou from the University of Sydney's School of Public Health stated that many industries on the council are 'associated with significant health harms' and are major contributors to diet-related environmental impacts.
Dr Matt Fisher from the University of Adelaide's Stretton Institute expressed concern that the policy being developed could 'compromise crucial public health considerations'. His research, which analysed 180 state and federal government food policy documents, revealed high levels of industry involvement in Australian food policies.
Ultra-Processed Food Crisis
A major global report published in The Lancet medical journal earlier in November revealed alarming statistics about Australian eating habits. The research found that ultra-processed foods comprise around half of the average Australian diet, with consumption rates among the highest globally.
Professor Mark Lawrence from Deakin University criticised the council for reflecting a 'fairly narrow analysis' of food insecurity. Despite the Feeding Australia discussion paper recognising the international definition of food security - which includes access to nutritious food for an active and healthy life - the council's composition suggests limited focus on health outcomes.
Missed Opportunity for Health Reform
Experts argue that improving food security requires policies that directly conflict with corporate interests. Dr Anastasiou emphasised that effective measures would include:
- Increasing diversity of food production
- Lowering fresh food prices
- Implementing taxes on ultra-processed foods
- Restricting marketing of unhealthy products
Daisy Coyle, a research fellow with The George Institute and registered dietitian, described the council as 'imbalanced', noting that nutrition, equity and long-term wellbeing 'sit outside the expertise of many other sectors on the council'.
Dr Philip Baker highlighted how rural and remote communities particularly depend on ultra-processed foods, with food banks 'pumping out ultra-processed foods donated from major supermarkets'.
A federal government spokesperson defended the council membership, stating it 'reflects the diversity and complexity of Australia's food system' and acknowledging that nutritious diet is key to health and wellbeing.
However, Professor Lawrence delivered a stark prediction: 'Without health-driven policies, my prediction will be that in 10 years' time, the ultra-processed food system in this country will be even more entrenched.'
