Water shortage in Australian fast food outlets

The ubiquity of fast food restaurants which promote and provide energy-dense foods and sugary beverages has been identified as one significant part of the obesogenic food environment. Fast food restaurants typically offer and promote meal deals that include a major food item (e.g. burger), fried potato and a soft drink in combination, which is promoted as value for money. One way of reducing energy intake is to consume water as an alternative beverage in meal deals. However, recent research indicates that such an establishment would prevent the duplication of effort and professional resources directed at SECC. We are not suggesting the establishment of another professional body – there are already too many to choose from. Rather, we are suggesting that a consolidated effort is required to best meet the needs of Australia’s future public health workforce. Such collaboration may well require some of the existing professional associations to think more laterally and be more flexible about the types of activities they offer for the SECC. Perhaps profit gained from the recent Congress could be used to build infrastructure at the national level to encourage collaborative action that supports this group. This is likely to build a more robust and well networked public health SECC. We see the SECC as including passionate, intelligent individuals who are committed to working towards a healthier and equitable future. Co-ordinated efforts are now needed to ensure their ongoing involvement. Now is the time for action.