10 Years of Cooperation Wasted. The Government Wants to Go Further: Inspections and Bans on the Way

After 10 years of voluntary cooperation with the food industry, the authorities do not see the expected results. Norwegians are not eating healthier. Consumption of fruits, vegetables, and fish is declining. There has also been no reduction in salt, sugar, or saturated fat intake. The minister announces that cooperation in its current form will not continue.

In 2016, the government and the food industry signed an agreement on a healthier diet. The goal was to reduce the consumption of salt, sugar, and fat. It was also assumed that the consumption of healthier products would increase. However, the latest reports show the opposite trend. The minister considers the results unacceptable.

Jan Christian Vestre emphasizes that concrete goals and control mechanisms are needed. He announces a more binding form of cooperation. Otherwise, new regulations may be introduced. The government has already banned the marketing of unhealthy food and drinks to children. The minister points out that this is proof of readiness for further legislative action.

Vestre points to the role of the entire supply chain. Responsibility should be borne by both producers and retail chains. The minister criticizes 'two for the price of one' promotions for unhealthy products. He suggests that similar campaigns should cover healthier items. He also wants sweets to disappear from checkout areas.

The industry is responding cautiously. NHO Mat og Drikke emphasizes the importance of dialogue outside the media. The organization points out that it is unclear what the situation would be without the current agreement. Virke Dagligvare notes that consumers decide what goes into their shopping baskets. Retail representatives call for realistic goals and shared responsibility, including on the part of the authorities.

Talks are currently underway on the shape of a new agreement between the government and the industry. A special working group with the minister's participation has been established. It will decide on potential new commitments and control tools. The outcome will determine whether Norway sticks to the voluntary cooperation model or opts for more restrictive legal solutions.