'Cheeseburger bill' set to stop obesity lawsuits

A so-called “cheeseburger bill” that would prevent obese people suing the fast food industry has been passed by the US House of Representatives.

Fat Americans will no longer be able to blame their weight on eating too much junk if the law is passed by the Senate.

The measure stems from lawsuits accusing McDonald’s of causing obesity in tens of thousands of children.

Republican supporter Mike Rogers said: “You cannot litigate personal choices and lifestyles.”

Obesity among children in the United States has doubled in the past three decades, with one in three now overweight.

The National Council of Chain Restaurants welcomed the bill, denouncing “frivolous” obesity lawsuits.

“Food is only one part of what must be a multi-faceted solution to the problem, and all foods can be part of a healthy, balanced diet,” said spokesman Scott Vinson.

The council represents brands including McDonald’s, Burger King and KFC.

Critics of the bill claim that fast food companies should be held accountable for their harmful products.

The legislation, named the Personal Responsibility in Food Consumption Act, would not prevent lawsuits stemming from contaminated food.