Trial Nutrition Labels – The Traffic Light System

A UK-style nutrition label system may be trialled in Australia to aid consumers in making healthier choices at the supermarket. Based on levels of fat, sugar and salt - the traffic light image will be red for high, amber for medium and green for low levels.

Fay Jenkins, the director of food policy and programs of the South Australian Health Department is all for the signal system. She says the symbols could help people from lower socio-economic backgrounds understand which foods were healthier.

Michelle Herriot, a unit director for South Australian Health Promotions, has said the Government could also consider a "fat tax" on unhealthy foods such as soft drinks. The money from these taxes would go to obesity programs.

It has also been suggested that health food such as fruit and vegetables should be subsidised so it can be more affordable and hence more often consumed.

What do you think is the best way to solve Australia’s obesity problems?