Obesity and Food Industry CSR

Study Outline
The study has an analysis of economics and laws governing food industry practices, and other
factors contributing to the rise in obesity levels. Corporate social responsibility to address the
crisis is also discussed.
Food Industry Economics and Competition
Activities of participants in the food industry are contributing to deteriorating environment and
public health. James (2013) explains that farmers need to make profit, but do not enjoy
government support while large multinational corporations and policymakers do not pay
attention to the needs of stakeholders without economic means. Farming practices are different
from previous generations, and farmers are able to choose technologies and techniques. There is
also a rise in industry concentration, where merging and consolidation of farms are aimed at
capturing economies of scale. The practice results in increasing productivity and lower costs to
downstream firms and consumers at the retail end.
Obesity
Overeating is making people sick. Kessler (2012) argues obesity leads to health problems
including diabetes, heart disease, and some types of cancers. Overeating is not only a problem
for adults, but a problem for kids also. Overeating is not happening by accident, and people have
not become weak or lose their willpower. People overeat largely because of the way food is
manufactured and marketed. Foods are designed and sold to make people want to eat more. Food
companies process foods with three main ingredients, which are fat, salt, and sugar. These
ingredients in the right amounts make people eat more. Such foods train the bodies and brains to
want more.

CSR
1

Maguire and Haslam (2010) argue that solving the obesity problem requires a concerted effort
from government, agencies and businesses, communities, families, and the public. Government
regulation and greater societal engagement are required for individual understanding of the
problem and greater personal responsibility for health.

References
2

James, H. (2013). The Ethics and Economics of Agrifood Competition. London: Springer.
Kessler, D. (2012). Is Your Food Fooling You. U.S.A.: Roaring Book Press.
Maguire, T. & Haslam, D. (2010). The Obesity Epidemic and Its Management. London:
Pharmaceutical Press.