Belgium must take more proactive steps to promote healthy and sustainable eating, according to a recent analysis conducted by the health institute Sciensano in collaboration with KU Leuven. The report suggests that relying solely on awareness campaigns is insufficient; instead, the country should implement stronger measures, such as regulations and economic incentives, to encourage healthier eating habits.
The report highlights that Belgium’s current eating habits are a significant contributor to chronic diseases, as well as environmental damage, particularly concerning climate change. As part of a broader strategy, over 150 recommendations have been provided to address these issues and promote better dietary practices.
One key challenge noted by the health institute is the fragmentation of national policies related to food. Although there is growing political attention towards food environments, there remains a lack of cohesion in policy development. Sciensano recommends several key actions, including:
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Restricting advertisements for unhealthy and unsustainable products.
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Making public food procurement more sustainable.
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Granting local authorities more legal power to address food-related issues within their jurisdictions.
These proposals present an opportunity for collaboration across various sectors and levels of government. A unified national strategy for food policy in Belgium is essential, especially considering that healthy and sustainable diets are not adequately represented in the European strategy for agriculture and food, according to Michiel De Bauw, research director at Sciensano.
The report emphasizes the need for stronger inter-federal coordination, improving collaboration across sectors like health, environment, agriculture, and education. Additionally, vertical coordination across various government levels is crucial. Only through well-coordinated and comprehensive management can Belgium address the current and future challenges related to food environments, the study concluded.
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