Obesity is a growing problem, what are you doing to help address the issue?
While obesity is a hot topic and one which we take seriously, we primarily make treats and beverages that are really a very small part of the diet - perhaps only 2%. We are not in the business of main meals and nutrition and generally we do not see our products as part of the dinner plate.
If you speak to most experts they will tell you that obesity is a whole life issue not just a food issue - we need to look at what we eat, but also what we do or do not do in terms of how active we are in our daily lives.
Cadbury has a long history of doing our part to help society. So since the issue became prominent a few years ago, we have been listening to our consumers and taking action that we are proud of. From portion sizes and sugar free alternatives, to updating our marketing code and labelling we are ensuring people continue to love our brands - and we hope we are helping society in the process. At the end of the day, everything can be enjoyed in moderation - including treats and beverages.
Childhood obesity is a particular concern, what steps are you taking to discourage children from eating too much confectionery?
Until relatively recently, there was never much talk about obesity or being overweight. That is probably because we were more active than kids are today and we would burn off the calories.
Did you know that our calorie intake has actually decreased over the past 50 years? What has changed is activity levels and the way we have our main meals.
We have all grown-up enjoying a bit of Cadbury's chocolate as a treat. It was simply a nice part of growing up and nutritionists think they are good to have in balance. What is more concerning is what our kids are eating generally, as well as making sure that they are physically active rather than sitting in front of the TV and computer.
Cadbury tries to help parents by encouraging moderation, not advertising to young children and not vending confectionery products or carbonated beverages in primary schools. Regardless of the causes, diet and exercise is something we all need to take more seriously so our kids do not suffer in the future.
Your products have been termed as 'junk food', how do you respond?
Cadbury provides consumers with safe, quality products that are marketed truthfully and labelled clearly.
We recognise that the term 'junk food' is used as a short hand to categorise certain food and drinks. However, it is not a term we would associate with our brands since we have a commitment to and reputation for producing high quality products. The term also demonises the treats and beverages that people have enjoyed for generations and does not help consumers understand how foods of all types can form part of a balanced diet and lifestyle. People understand that, in moderation, treats can form a part of the diet, a view that nutritionists agree with, - as well as bringing a touch of pleasure and enjoyment in our lives.
The LIBRA study:
Insights into Improving Understanding of Adult and Child Obesity.
For the fourth consecutive year, Cadbury Trebor Bassett has supported a major survey in the UK that tracks annual changes in the obesity and specifically assesses the role and position of confectionery in people's lives - interms of both attitudes and behaviours. Called The LIBRA study, this large-scale research initiative is part of an ongoing effort to help improve understanding in this area of public health and was conducted with leading research company, Taylor Nelson Sofres and supplemented by UK government statistics. Read the LIBRA study findings here
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