Too much food, too little balance on Aussie plates

Media Release
17 July 2012

Many Australians are eating too much of some foods and not enough of others, according to a report released today by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW).

In 1994, the AIHW published its first comprehensive report on Australia’s food and nutrition. Australia’s food & nutrition 2012 is the much-anticipated revised edition, and was launched today by Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing, Catherine King, at the 2012 World Congress of the International Federation for Home Economics in Melbourne. The report highlights the key parts of the food and nutrition system from ‘paddock to plate’ and how food choices affect health and the environment.

‘The report shows that many Australians are not striking a balance between foods high in fat and sugar and more nutritious choices,’ said AIHW spokesperson Lisa McGlynn.

‘Treat’ or extra foods are generally high in energy and low in nutrients. They include takeaway items, crisps, sweet biscuits, cakes and pastries, confectionery, soft drinks and alcohol. On average, extra foods contributed to 36% of energy intake for adults and 41% for children, which is more than the recommended 0–3 serves of ‘extras’ per day (depending on age and stage).

In addition, the majority of adults and children had higher energy intakes from total sugars and saturated fat than recommended—that is, a maximum of 20% from sugars and 10% from saturated and trans fats combined.

More than 9 in 10 people aged 16 and over don’t eat the recommended 5 serves of vegetables...

Source: Too much food, too little balance on Aussie plates
Author: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare

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