We hope that the time has come for the health of our children to become a priority in the educational program, says Iana Stratieva, executive director of the Food Drink Bulgaria Association.
“We hope the time has come for children’s health to be recognized as a priority within the educational curriculum,” says Iana Stratieva, Executive Director of the Food Drink Bulgaria Association.
In recent years, public interest in healthy living—particularly balanced nutrition and various dietary approaches—has increased substantially. However, the key question remains: how can consumers distinguish between scientifically sound guidance and temporary trends?
One of today’s major challenges is the overwhelming volume of information, which, in the absence of sufficient education, public consensus, and sector-specific policies, can easily confuse individuals. Research from the Ministry of Health indicates that more than 80% of parents of overweight children do not perceive their child’s weight as problematic, while over 10% of adolescent girls are consistently undernourished. These findings underscore the urgent need for educational and social measures, as well as a comprehensive strategy to promote balanced living and nutrition and to provide consumers with reliable orientation in an oversaturated informational environment.
The FDB Association maintains that foods themselves are not inherently harmful; rather, it is poor dietary patterns and unbalanced lifestyles that create health risks. Extremes in nutrition—whether the complete exclusion of certain food groups, such as in some popular carbohydrate-free diets, or the normalization of overeating and oversized portions—pose significant dangers.
As a responsible industry, we are committed to promoting balanced, healthy, and sustainable diets, as well as an active lifestyle. Our members continuously work on product reformulation to improve nutritional value and reduce salt, sugar, and fat content. This is a complex, long-term process aimed at gradually adjusting consumer preferences and offering broader, healthier alternatives.
We also advocate for responsible and informed consumption by providing clear and comprehensive product information, encouraging portion control, and supporting responsible marketing and advertising. Furthermore, we endorse initiatives that foster active living and greater physical activity—efforts that are especially crucial for safeguarding children’s health.
www.manager.bgFor more information on how to become a member of The Food Drink Bulgaria Association, please contact office@fooddrink.bg
