Over the past hundred years our lives have changed. As a society, our eating habits have changed dramatically and we spend more time sitting at computers and in cars than riding our bikes and walking. Together with other factors, such as people’s cultural and economic environments, this has resulted in growing weight-related diseases and obesity levels for both adults and children and an increased cost to society.

Europe’s food and drink industry is committed to being part of the solution, as the numerous actions we have undertaken demonstrate. For years, we have been responding to changing consumer demands with increased choice, “lighter” products and smaller portion sizes, functional foods and improved product labelling. We have also been doing things that are less obvious: extensive research, public education, promotion of healthy lifestyles, partnerships with doctors, teachers, schools, public health officials and non-governmental organisations, and voluntary restrictions on advertising and marketing to children.

Since 2005, the EU Platform for Action on Diet, Physical Activity and Health  has undoubtedly been a catalyst for additional and more urgent action, and CIAA in turn has been a catalyst for increased action by its members. Together, we are demonstrating that voluntary measures are a fast and effective tool to promote balanced diets and healthy lifestyles. The results are already evident, and this is only the beginning of changes in the way that food and drink companies do business and in the way people in Europe eat, drink and live.

This Web site highlights just a few of the thousands of initiatives our members are taking forward across Europe today. It also highlights the need for grassroots partnerships by all stakeholders, including schools, public health authorities and others. CIAA is dedicating a section of its website to its commitments to the EU Platform for Action.

We hope this site will provide “food for thought” and will inspire others to educate and innovate for the benefit of European consumers.

Learn more about the various Members initiatives and actions »