A tax has been proposed in August 2006 comparing health facts with cigarettes. On every corner there is a McDonalds or a Burger King. Should those companies not be allowed in our schools? “FAST foods, processed snacks and sugary drinks can cause as much ill health as cigarettes, and should be taxed like tobacco and banned from schools and public institutions, obesity experts say.”(Julie Robotham) In Australia, “They advocate strict physical activity rules for school students, a ban on all heavily processed fast foods and snacks from public schools and hospitals, unambiguous color-coded labels to denote nutritional quality, taxation for unhealthy products balanced with subsidies for fresh foods, and prohibition of all food marketing aimed at children.” (Julie Robotham) This seems like an extreme action being taken toward ridding our system of unhealthy food but those same companies put out labels with calorie and food content and a separate menu of healthier options. At least one in four children is now overweight and at risk of health problems, while the figure is higher for adults.
Fast food companies have a history of lawsuits ever since their consumer’s began eating their product. There is the issue of self control, and since we have freedom here in the United States, why can we not handle taking care of our own bodies. Government should not have to regulate what we ingest if they did alcohol would surely be illegal, as well as tobacco products. "Overweight Americans will not find the solution to obesity in the courtroom but in making wise choices to eat smaller portions and healthier foods wherever they go." In March of 2004 the House passed a bill voted in favor of a bill “that would shield food companies and restaurants from obesity-related lawsuits. In a 276-139 vote, the house backed a ban on such lawsuits, saying such cases could bankrupt fast-food chains and restaurants.”(NBC) This raises a few questions that may show us why these places are under concern. If in fact their food is ok in moderation and clearly has enough customers to cause an uproar why do the companies still market to certain target groups in advertising. On the other hand if we are all well aware of the side effects of indulging on these deadly snack what purpose do we have of still supporting their business? There are ads on television that repeatedly tell you to go try this new fast food item or that new super giant food item. These commercials also cater to certain people, some children, men or woman, and maybe even people that play sports.
This is just part1 to my paper but was just wondering what you all think of the topic so far. What questions would you ask or comments would you make to the companies or consumers?
Sources:
http://www.nbc4.tv/health/2307691/detail.html
http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/food/2007-02-28-charles-mcdonalds_x.htm
What is your primary reason for eating at a fast food chain? (e.g. convenience, taste, accessability, etc)
How many times a week do you eat fast food, and how many times a week do you work out (and I'm not talking twelve ounce curls here)?
If you are overweight, what do you consider your primary cause of this extra weight (e.g. lack of exercise, diet, genes, etc)? Have you/do you want to take steps to lose weight?
Questions to the companies
What has been/can be done to reduce calories and fat content in each of their products (e.g. low fat grease, baking instead of frying, flame broiled instead of flat top grill)?
Is there an equal balance of alternative health choices on the menu?
Are there plans to create healthy/alternative fast food (besides Subway)?
Have you thought of a marketing scheme where you emphasize physical fitness (team up with fitness center to offer discounts on membership dues with purchase, for example)?
Could you offer a bottle of water with a value meal instead of a soda for no charge?
Hope some of these help you at least brainstorm or get some good thoughts flowing.
Anthony