Government and companies applauded for removing fizzy from schools

The Food & Grocery Council (FGC) congratulates the Government and two FGC members Coca-Cola Amatil and Frucor for removing full sugar drinks from schools.

“The successful implementation of the Voluntary Schools Agreement today shows that when Governments work in partnership with the food and beverage industry positive change can happen without the need for regulation,” said Katherine Rich, FGC’s Chief Executive.

“The announcement by Coca-Cola and Frucor this morning is timely because it neatly rebuts food activists’ impractical calls this week that punitive and unworkable sugar taxes were the only answer.

“The Minister of Health Tony Ryall was absolutely right to rule out fat and sugar taxes, saying New Zealand families are already struggling and don’t need this extra burden.

“The beauty of the Voluntary Schools Agreement is that it’s a targeted initiative to reduce sugar consumption in schools. Assuming schools play their part it will make a huge difference,” Mrs Rich said.