Pizza makers mislead consumers

09/01/2014

An analysis of takeaway pizzas, including those from major national chains, supermarkets and gourmet independent outlets, showed more than half of the pizzas tested had more salt, sugar or fat in their products than stated on the company’s nutritional panels.

The sampling of 174 pizzas was undertaken by the Local Health Authorities Analytical Committee which works with local governments in WA.

Pizzas produced by the major franchise operators Domino’s, Eagle Boys and Pizza Hut as well as independent or boutique outlets were analysed. Frozen pizza products (e.g. Mc Cains, Emilia, Dr Oetker, When in Rome and Woolworths and Coles own-brand products) were also included, with samples collected from various supermarket outlets.

The National Heart Foundation of Australia says the results show people are consuming more kilojoules than they are aware of.

“These junk food providers are making it difficult for the community to address the growing epidemic of obesity among adults in Australia,” Heart Foundation WA Chief Executive Maurice Swanson said.

“The saturated fat and high salt levels in these popular junk food products mean people who eat them regularly are increasing their risk of obesity, heart attacks or strokes.”

Mr Swanson said the Heart Foundation’s WA anti-obesity campaign LiveLighter urged pizza companies to provide accurate and reliable nutrition information panels as part of food packaging and labelling.

“The LiveLighter campaign is encouraging consumers to make their own pizzas or choose healthier take-away alternatives where they can select their ingredients and control the levels of salt, sugar and fat,” he said.

Mr Swanson congratulated local governments for taking a real interest in promoting the health of their residents.

The results are available on the committee’s website.

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Media contact:
Emma Bourke, National Media and Communications Manager, 0411 310 997 or
Sandy Oliver, WA Media and Communications Manager 0403 348 749