Qld fast food chains avoid labelling laws

Laws that would force Queenslanders to confront the fattiness of their fast food are no longer on the government's agenda. ON current trends, about two-thirds of Queensland adults will be overweight or obese by 2020.

The former Labor government last year announced moves to make fast food stores display the energy content of foods and drinks on their menu boards.

The laws were to be introduced to parliament this year, but did not make it before the March election.

A spokesman for Health Minister Lawrence Springborg told AAP they're not on the Newman government's agenda.

"The issue has not been considered by the LNP government," he said.

The Heart Foundation says obesity is now the leading cause of premature death and disability in Queensland.

The displays would help slow the impending obesity epidemic, and the organisation wants them to be considered.

"These reforms would bring Queensland in line with NSW and the ACT where legislation now exists," a spokeswoman said.

"If food outlets displayed the kilojoule content of standard food items on their menu boards at point of sale, Queenslanders would be better informed about what foods they are eating and could make healthier choices."

The Heart Foundation says more than four million Australians eat at fast food or snack food outlets every day.

Mr Springborg will next month speak on preventive health at the inaugural Health Media Club event in Brisbane.

Source: AAP, 6 July 2012