Anger at remark on junk food from public health experts

Public health experts from around the world have strongly criticised the head of the British Food and Drink Federation (FDF) for suggesting that non-Western countries have “no problem” with Coca-Cola and McDonald’s sponsoring the Olympics.

Ian Wright, director-general of the FDF, which represents the food and drink industry, told Campaign magazine the “source of the controversy is invariably Western and metropolitan” and Asian and Latin American countries have “no problem” with the companies.

In the interview, Mr Wright said: “Coca-Cola and McDonald’s are among the world’s most responsible companies. Being involved in the Olympic family and sharing its values allows both sides to benefit from the special value of such relationships. You only have to look at Johnnie Walker’s sponsorship of the McLaren Formula One team to see that it has not only been very successful but has also advanced the cause of responsible drinking. You also have to remember that the source of the controversy is invariably Western and metropolitan. Asian and Latin American countries have no problem with companies that behave responsibly.”