Institutional responses to dietary habits: An analysis of measures to combat obesity

Abstract

Spain has one of the highest childhood obesity rates in Europe. In this paper we study the different ways institutions are dealing with increasing obesity rates in Europe and in Spain in particular. We discuss measures taken to promote a healthy diet in both educational and consumer contexts. The obesity epidemic has led institutions to rethink the role of diet and nutrition. Firstly, diet has become a social issue and left aside much of its biological foundations. Second, diet has begun to form part of health policy agendas, moving away from the traditional agricultural-oriented viewpoint. Thirdly, the rise in obesity has led to corresponsibility between the state and food processing industries regarding food problems.