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CRA Statement on Obesity The increase in the number of people that are overweight, obese and/or suffer from diabetes is a serious national health concern that warrants the focused attention of national, state and local officials. The Corn Refiners Association, Inc. (CRA) supports science-based solutions that address the fundamental need to improve the nutritional intake in our diets, encourage a balanced diet and moderate consumption of all foods and beverages, and support increased physical activity. CRA applauds the Bush Administration's nutrition goals for the reauthorization of the child nutrition programs announced by Secretary Veneman at the National Nutrition Education Conference on February 25, 2003. Included in those goals is a new initiative that will provide financial support to schools that promote good nutrition and partnerships at the federal, state and local levels. In specific, schools that serve meals that meet the dietary guidelines, offer healthy alternatives and provide nutrition education would be eligible for monetary benefits. However, CRA opposes any ban on foods in our nation's schools or other public places. Nutrition education should be a cornerstone of our public school system to enable American children to make sound nutritional choices in their daily eating habits both while at school and when they are at home or dining out. Such an approach will best prepare our nation's youth to maintain a healthy lifestyle well into adulthood. Prohibiting food choices, even through the sale of vending machines, could have the adverse effect of making such food items even more attractive to children. If children do not face "real world" choices within the school environment, they are less likely to develop the ability to make intelligent choices outside of school, and into adulthood. Food, by definition, is a substance ingested in order to produce energy, stimulate growth, and maintain life. There is no such thing as "bad" food. Carbohydrates, fats and proteins are essential body nutrients. It is only the quantities and combinations of these foods that can have a negative effect. It is important for all of us to learn balance and moderation in eating habits. This is not accomplished through elimination of choices, but through education. CRA supports the Bush Administration's efforts to promote physical activity. Physical activity is a crucial element in the fight against obesity and the health of our nation as a whole and is a leading component of President Bush’s Healthier U.S. initiative, the Department of Health and Human Services "Small Steps" initiative, and programs associated with the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Health. Starting healthy habits of daily physical activity should begin at a very early age, but about one in four children do not get any physical education in school. Providing opportunities for daily physical activity will help our children understand the important balance between diet and exercise. CRA, in concert with other food and agricultural organizations, is working diligently with our nation's leaders, school officials and concerned parents to derive the best possible solutions for addressing this important health issue. |