The Sugar Hit forum helps councils plan for tackling sugaring drinks in their Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plans.
Cutting back on sugar is one of the many things we can do to keep healthy and well. And reducing intake of sugary drinks is one of the actions under the healthy eating priority in the Victorian Public Health and Wellbeing Plan.
The Rethink Sugary Drink alliance, YMCA and LiveLighter held a Sugar Hit forum, bringing together decision-makers in local governments from across Victoria. The event presented evidence and case-studies of how councils can be strong leaders in reducing the health impact of sugary drinks through their upcoming Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plans.
Panellists from Corangamite Shire Council, City of Melbourne, City of Greater Geelong and City of Whittlesea all discussed the action they are taking in their communities to reduce availability and consumption of sugary drinks. They also outlined their plans to build on the steps already taken. All the panellists agreed that reducing sugary drinks does not mean reducing profit for retailers. None of the retailers they worked with saw a significant change to sales.
Local governments wanting to include a commitment to reducing sugary drinks via their Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plans can seek more information at the rethink sugary drink website.
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