WEF warns that trade and investment agreements can increase consumption of unhealthy foods, sugary drinks and tobacco – leading to soaring rates of obesity and chronic diseases globally.
Source: There’s a suprising connection to obesity we haven’t even considered | World Economic Forum
As US adult obesity levels reach 40% and the CDC warns that 40% of cancers linked to obesity, the WEF rightly targets tobacco, unhealthy foods and alcohol products. WEF reports that alongside physical inactivity, consumption of these products is one of the main drivers of non-communicable deseases (NCDs).
Having travelled extensively in the developing world, I’ve seen first hand the correlation between increased trade and higher consumption of junk food and alcohol.
Unfortunately, the tabacco, food and drinks industry has a very poweful lobby and governments are way behind the curve with effective intervention.
Thoughts?