Food and Drink Federation – consumer information programmes

Citation

(2004), "Food and Drink Federation – consumer information programmes", Nutrition & Food Science, Vol. 34 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/nfs.2004.01734dab.005

Food and Drink Federation – consumer information programmes

FDF’s consumer information programmes, developed on behalf of the UK food and drink manufacturing industry, aim to help consumers make informed decisions about food. FDF recognises the importance of promoting consistent, science-based messages on healthy eating. Lyndel Costain has been a member of FDF’s advisory panel since the foodfitness programme began in 1996. She has helped ensure that the dietary messages within “Join the Activaters” are consistent with BDA advice, for example “5 a day” and base meals on starchy foods.

In 1996, FDF launched foodfitness, a healthy lifestyle initiative with a unique dual approach promoting increased moderate physical activity coupled with enjoyable, healthy eating. The programme encourages participants to “Join The Activaters”, promoting healthy lifestyle in an innovative and funny way with the aid of two cartoon families – the “Activaters” and the “Dolittles”. Their aim is to engage the public and show that a healthy lifestyle need not be dull, demanding, extreme or expensive.

Foodfitness introduced a new CD ROM-based education programme to UK primary schools in February 2003. “Join the Activaters” provides a fun and involving way for children to learn about combining physical activity with a balanced diet. The programme has been very well received by teachers, parents and dietitians.

For future information on foodfitness visit the Web site: www.foodfitness.org.uk

Finally FDF, has just produced a new booklet “Food for Our Future Genetic modification, food & farming” addressing both benefits and concerns surrounding GM and food in a balanced way.

For more information on foodfuture visit the Web site: www.foodfuture.org.uk