Lithuania addresses high obesity and poor diet through education and labeling, while considering various policy solutions.
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In Lithuania, one in two people are overweight, and one-third of the population struggles with obesity. Currently, the responsibility for preventive measures and diet falls on individuals, as there are no legislative acts to reduce sugar in school meals or restrict the marketing of unhealthy foods. The Ministry of Health notes that reducing sugar consumption is a shared responsibility within the broader European Union health policy, as sugar intake in all EU countries, including Lithuania, exceeds WHO recommendations, contributing to the rise of obesity, diabetes, and cancer. Lithuania is focusing on encouraging changes in food composition and informing consumers about healthy eating, and sugar content is regulated in food and meals provided in educational and healthcare institutions. Lithuania also uses a “Red Dot” labeling system, similar to other Nordic countries, to warn consumers about products high in sugar, animal fats, trans fats, and salt, and these products are prohibited from containing sweeteners. While a sugar tax was implemented in Hungary, studies suggest it has not been effective in improving public health, with obesity rates increasing. While Lithuania considered a sugar tax, the focus shifted to promoting healthy eating. Other countries have taken different approaches, such as Norway and Sweden eliminating taxes on sugary items. Future measures being explored include banning unhealthy food advertising on television, particularly during children’s viewing hours, in the UK and Netherlands.
