Food industry tactics in public health nutrition policy: an analysis in four European countries

Abstract Unhealthy diets are a major risk factor for diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Policies aimed at reducing the consumption of unhealthy products may threaten food industry profits, prompting industry actors to influence policy processes through corporate political activities (CPA). This study, as part of JA PreventNCD, identifies framing and action strategies of the food industry that potentially influence food environment policies in Belgium, Norway, Portugal and Slovenia. A systematic analysis of publicly available information was done in each country, collecting data from the website and social media accounts of the national umbrella organisation of the food industry, as well as from news sources over the past two years. Additionally, 22 semi-structured interviews with stakeholders were conducted to gather undocumented experiences. A thematic qualitative analysis was performed, using the conceptual framework of framing strategies by Ulucanlar et al. (2023) and the framework of action strategies by Mialon et al. (2015). Findings reveal similar CPA across countries. The food industry primarily uses the frame of the ‘good actor’, positioning itself as a responsible partner in public health and a legitimate policy actor. Simultaneously, they often depict government regulations as ‘unacceptable, bad solutions’, emphasizing potential negative consequences. Common action strategies include ‘information and messaging’, through which industry actors disseminate favourable narratives, shape evidence and engage in lobbying. Furthermore, they build close relationships with policymakers and promote self-regulatory initiatives as alternatives to mandatory policies. This study contributes to the mapping of food industry's CPA that potentially influence public health policies in Europe. Enhancing transparency of these strategies enables greater accountability of the food industry and informs more independent, public health-driven policy-making. Key messages • This study reveals strategies of food industry actors in European countries that potentially influence the development and implementation of food environment policies. • Uncovering food industry tactics raises awareness among researchers, policymakers and the public health community, helping to prevent industry interference in public health policy-making.