Food and drink industry rejects claims of irresponsibility over obesity and alcoholism

The food and drink industry is not guilty of irresponsibility over the public’s consumption of unhealthy food or excessive alcohol, peers have been told.

Individuals’ choice within a responsible selling environment is crucial, said industry leaders giving evidence during a session of the House of Lords science and technology select committee on 19 January.

The committee was questioning witnesses as part of its inquiry into the use of behaviour change interventions as a means to achieve the government’s policy goals.

Justin King, chief executive of the supermarket chain Sainsbury’s, giving evidence, was asked whether Sainsbury’s felt responsibility for encouraging healthier eating behaviour among its customers to reduce obesity.

Mr …