It seems like a step in the right direction, across Britain, big businesses are giving away $390 million in discount coupons. These will let shoppers get cheaper healthy options like wholegrain rice, fruits and vegetables.
But, is this new scheme really a sign that big business and the food industry are starting to back healthy eating, instead of profits?
The government certainly think so. Health Secretary, Andrew Lansley, described the scheme as:
A great example of how government, the media, industry and retailers can work together to help families to be healthy... The healthy option isn't always the cheapest option so it's a really important step to be able to offer ?50 off healthier foods, drinks and activities.
According to Reuters, the five million coupons, each for ?50 (around $77) are being distributed by:
- The News of the World Weekly: three million
- Asda (a subsidiary of Wal-Mart): one million
- Community groups: one million
The vouchers will offer money off on specific branded products, including:
Kellogg, Unilever, Nestle, Mars, baker Warburtons, and frozen food brand Bird's Eye, as well as some Asda own-brand goods, and trainers from sportswear retailer JJB Sports.
Some commentators have been sceptical about the motivations behind the industry backing, with Tim Lang, a food policy professor at London's City University, saying to the BBC:
Is it a public health strategy? No, it is a corporate brand protection strategy.
The scheme is being run in conjunction with the Change4Life government campaign, as part of their "Great Swapathon".
Would food discount coupons encourage you to make healthier choices? Should big companies be allowed to distribute these? Or, should the coupons be financed by the government?
Image credit: Jenny Downing
Комментариев нет:
Отправить комментарий