Local moves can start to counter health problems caused by sugary drinks, even if the Government does not wish to introduce a sugar tax, a Dunedin academic says.
University of Otago Edgar Diabetes and Obesity Research Centre research director Rachael Taylor supported a recent Auckland University study, which urged the Government to introduce a tax on sugary drinks.
''I would support a sugar tax,'' she said.
''Sugary drinks are definitely an issue.''
Health Minister David Clark has said the Government had ''no plans for a sugar tax'' but a reduction of sugar in food and drink, and a better food labelling system were needed.
Dr Clark had met the food industry several times and had outlined the ''clear expectation'' that Government and industry would work together on the issue, he said.
Prof Taylor acknowledged New Zealand faced an obesity epidemic and a sharp rise in adult-onset diabetes.
Crucial public health information was missing, and more Ministry of Health national dietary surveys were needed, including on sugary drink consumption, the last such national study for children having been done in 2003, she said.
More clinical evidence was also needed.
She highlighted the Southern District Health Board's moves last December, to reduce sugary food at Dunedin Hospital's Dispensary Cafe, and to make other related dietary improvements, including vending machines.
The changes are in line with the Ministry of Health's national healthy food and drink policy, which all DHBs are obliged to comply with.
Prof Taylor said the SDHB's actions had shown what could be done to develop healthier environments.
''Schools, workplaces and communities can start to contribute.''
Further Government regulations could also help, she said.
