“Don’t Feed the Obese” child is legislation afoot. The proposition intends to prohibit only the serving of especially fattening food items and meals to children who eat at fast food chain restaurants without a parent or guardian.
According to public interest law professor John Banzhaf, also known as the “Ralph Nader of junk food” writing on the topic, if passed the legislation “would not interfere with decisions made by adults for themselves or by parents for children dining with them, and would impose only minor restrictions.” Additionally, Banzhaf suggests the bill may only target fast food establishments rather than all restaurants.
What do you think might happen to an obese child in a restaurant if this proposal becomes law?
Subscribe to this feed Certified Nutritionist Mattie Mola
I do have an obese child, and we all like to go out now and then to a restaurant be it, Mac Donalds or a more formal dining room. My son knows the health risks of his weight, as he isnt stupid and he is the one who suffers from it. Whilst other children the same age can eat the same thing, my son gains weight while others do not. It’s not always what or how much these children eat its simply their metabolism and make up. It’s not a cop out, just simple truth.
To answer the question from a mother who has an obese child, shame, guilt, belittlement and a sure mix of emotional and mental abuse by perfect strangers at a restaurant!! Surely this by no means could ever be made a law!! I for one would be the first to sue any restaurant for making my child feel ashamed and abnormal. My son knows the benefits of healthy eating and it is a struggle for him, but NOT ONLY HIM all children have trouble eating healthy. We make good and bad food choices, but because he’s just a fat kid, he must be a pig and eat waaaay more than other kids, and he must only eat junk food every day. I am so sick of that stereotypical attitude. Enough said ..
Mattie Mola replies: Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Does anyone else have thoughts on the proposed legislation?