The European common agricultural policy, obesity, and organic farming

The current rise of prevalence of obesity and weight-related diseases is a serious public-health problem. Various anti-obesity measures that are being introduced are contradicted by a powerful obesogenic intervention: the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). This undermines healthier choices by supporting overproduction of high-calorie foods. The CAP should be reformed to be more focused on health and quality. As organic farming is an existing system of production that aims towards better quality of food, five arguments are presented on how organic agriculture might be a beneficial anti-obesity measure. Firstly, organically produced food is richer in nutritional value; secondly, it offers a less obesogenic option, as chemical pollution in foods and environments may be linked to weight gain; thirdly, organic farming creates a more diverse countryside which is inviting for walking and other recreational activities outdoors; fourthly, it increases employment, and there is a strong association between unemployment and weight gain. Finally, the EU could support availability of allotments. This would be a useful anti-obesity measure as people could grow their own fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as get a regular healthy exercise.