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Australia; SA
News release
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As pressure from obesity and diet-related chronic disease continues to mount on the nation’s health system, a new South Australian research program is aiming to reduce the burden by tackling the overconsumption of foods and drinks linked to excess calorie intake and preventable disease.
Funded by a five-year National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Investigator Grant awarded to Professor Caroline Miller, Director of SAHMRI’s Health Policy Centre, the program will generate new evidence to inform policy decisions relating to widespread availability and marketing of the ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks.
Two in three Australian adults are living with overweight or obesity, while ultra-processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages account for 42 per cent of Australians' diets.
Prof Miller says the current food environment makes it difficult for consumers to make informed choices.
“Many of these products are designed, marketed and packaged in ways that encourage overconsumption,” Prof Miller said.
“We need clear, practical policies that support people to make healthier choices.”
A core focus will involve evaluating the effectiveness of front-of-pack warning labels in reducing consumption of high-sugar products.
Prof Miller says improving how nutritional information is presented to consumers could play a key role.
“Providing simple, clear information on packaging can help people better understand what they’re consuming and prompt healthier choices,” she said.
The program will also provide up-to-date data on Australians’ consumption patterns and public attitudes towards potential policy responses, including labelling, regulation and other interventions.
Researchers will work closely with policymakers to ensure findings are translated into practical, evidence-based recommendations.
The program will also address common industry arguments that can delay or influence public health reform.
Prof Miller says the goal is to move beyond evidence into action.
“This is about equipping policymakers with the tools and evidence they need to act, for the good of all Australians,” she said.
The research builds on SAHMRI’s broader expertise in public health policy and health promotion, with a strong focus on translating evidence into real-world impact at a population level.
