Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Health has announced plans to tighten restrictions on the advertising of unhealthy foods and drinks targeted at children. The country aims to reduce childhood obesity by 30% by 2026 under the “Population Health” program.
Tackling childhood obesity
The World Obesity Federation predicts that 250 mn children and adolescents will be obese by 2030. In contrast, Uzbekistan, where the prevalence of overweight children under 5 years of age is 4.6%, is making efforts to combat this issue.
The country is ‘on course’ to prevent the figure from increasing, and has implemented measures such as strengthening restrictions on advertising unhealthy foods and drinks targeted at children. However, with 21.8% of adult women and 16.1% of adult men living with obesity, the challenge remains significant.
Promoting healthy eating in schools
As part of the initiative, schools and kindergartens across the country will be provided with healthy food. This move is in line with the global trend of promoting healthy eating habits among children to prevent obesity and related health issues.
Regulating food products in educational institutions
The Ministry of Health has also approved a list of products that are not recommended for children and young people in educational institutions. The list includes food with a high content of sugar, salt, and trans fats. This step is crucial considering the global concern over the consumption of such foods contributing to health issues like obesity, diabetes, and heart diseases.
Fostering healthy habits
In addition to dietary regulations, the Ministry of Health plans to develop a set of recommendations for children on proper nutrition, sports, and hygiene. These guidelines aim to foster healthy habits among children, promoting overall well-being and preventing health issues.
Earlier, Daryo reported that Uzbekistan is set to introduce an excise tax on sugar-sweetened carbonated drinks and energy drinks, effective from April 1, 2024. This legislative change was ratified by the President of Uzbekistan on December 28, following the approval of the primary directions of tax and budget policy.
As per the new law, carbonated drinks containing sugar or other sweetening or flavouring substances (excluding energy and tonic drinks) that are packaged for consumers will be taxed at a rate of UZS 500 ($0.041) per litre. Meanwhile, energy and tonic drinks will attract a higher tax rate of UZS 2000 ($0.16) per litre.
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