4 chapters across the catalog
The Obesity Policy Coalition in Australia is calling for the removal of cartoon characters like Tony the Tiger and Toucan Sam from cereal packaging to combat childhood obesity. While health advocates argue these characters manipulate children into wanting high-sugar products, Kellogg's defends the icons as integral to their brand identity.
Corporate Influence on Health Policy, NYSE Connections
The UK Department of Health is criticized for inviting companies like McDonald's, KFC, and PepsiCo to help write government policy on obesity and diet. In a related discussion on influence, the hosts note that Jon Stewart's brother, Larry Leibowitz, is the Chief Operating Officer of the New York Stock Exchange, suggesting deep ties between media figures and financial institutions.
China is facing a growing obesity crisis among its youth, attributed to the rise of Western fast food and the "six-pocket syndrome." Author Paul French discusses his book "Fat China," which explores how the one-child policy has created a generation of "little emperors" who are lavished with food and attention. The hosts compare this to the development of "spoiled brats" in the West.
United Airlines' policy to charge obese passengers for two seats sparks a discussion on "fat activism." The hosts recount an anecdote from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport involving a passenger with a unique body type struggling to secure an extra seat under previous airline regulations.
