UK government reforms may classify bran flakes as junk food by including naturally occurring 'free sugars' in new nutrient profiling. Kellanova warns this could undo health efforts, while the government states it aims to promote healthier diets and restrict junk food advertising.
School meal providers have warned that government proposals to update school food standards in England could have a 'devastating effect' on catering services. The plans would limit desserts, reduce grab-and-go items, and increase lentils, pulses and beans. Providers warn this could drive up costs and push pupils to buy junk food outside school. The first major update in 13 years, the proposals are open for consultation until 12 June.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said he would support a potential ban on junk food television advertisements in the U.S., aligning with surgeon general nominee Casey Means. The proposal, discussed at a Senate HELP Committee hearing, would target the $14 billion annual food advertising industry, with over 80% promoting unhealthy foods.
Researchers at the Rock of Gibraltar have documented macaques increasingly eating soil, a behaviour that may help the monkeys avoid stomach upset from consuming human snacks like chocolate, crisps and ice cream provided by tourists. The study found soil-eating was more common in monkey groups that consumed more tourist food, which is high in sugar, fat and dairy but low in fibre. The researchers propose that soil acts as a natural antacid to buffer negative effects of human food on the macaques' digestive systems.
Research from Cambridge University reveals that Gibraltar's macaque monkeys have learned to eat soil to counteract digestive issues caused by junk food stolen from or offered by tourists. Scientists observed 46 dirt-eating events across 98 observation days, noting that the behaviour increases during peak holiday season. The soil acts as a protective barrier in the digestive tract and provides beneficial bacteria, while the monkeys' natural diet consists of herbs, leaves, seeds and insects.
Monkeys in Gibraltar have learned to eat soil to settle their stomachs from all the junk food they consume, research suggests.
