Chocolate Manufacturers Association (CMA) Statement on Chocolate Products and Health

The increase in the number of people that are suffering from the effects of being overweight and obese is a serious national health concern that warrants the focused attention of stakeholders ranging from the academic and medical communities, corporations, policymakers, schools, parents, and ultimately, individuals. The Chocolate Manufacturers Association (CMA) supports science-based solutions that address the fundamental need to improve the nutritional intake in our diets, encourage a balanced diet and moderate consumption of all foods and beverages, and support active lifestyles.

In May 2004, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced its Action Plan for addressing obesity in this country, a plan that focuses on "nutrition basics." CMA welcomes FDA's positive, user-friendly approach, which reflects sound science and a wealth of research. We agree with the FDA's Obesity Working Group recommendation that instead of focusing on any one food (or ingredient), successful weight management must balance calories consumed against energy expended, with weight loss resulting from greater calorie expenditure.

As members of the food industry, we have an important role to play in helping consumers recognize the contribution of diet and activity to their health and well-being. It is important for all of us to learn balance and moderation in eating habits.

Carbohydrates, fats and proteins are essential body nutrients. There is no such thing as "bad foods." It is only the quantities and combinations of these foods that can have a negative effect. It is important for all of us to learn balance and moderation in eating habits. This is accomplished through education, not by eliminating choices. A recent review of data sources for U.S. candy consumption finds candy's role in Americans' calorie intake is small.

Nutrition education should be a cornerstone of our educational system to enable children to make sound nutritional choices in their daily eating habits both while at school, and when they are at home or dining out. Such an approach will best prepare our youth to maintain a healthy lifestyle well into adulthood.

That's why the CMA applauds the Bush Administration's nutrition goals for the reauthorization of the child nutrition programs that includes a provision for financial support to schools that promote good nutrition and partnerships at the federal, state and local levels. Specifically, schools that serve meals that meet the federal Dietary Guidelines, offer healthy alternatives and provide nutrition education would be eligible for monetary benefits.

On a related note, CMA supports efforts to promote physical activity for children and adults. Physical activity is a crucial element in the fight against obesity and the health of our nation. Providing opportunities for daily physical activity will help promote greater understanding of the important balance between diet and exercise.

CMA, in collaboration with other food and agricultural organizations, is committed to working with stakeholders (e.g., our nation's leaders, school officials and concerned parents) to derive the best possible solutions for addressing this important health issue.

Chocolate fits into a healthy, active lifestyle because it contributes energy, unique dietary benefits and adds pleasure and enjoyment to the diet. The most effective diets are those that balance health and nutrition concerns with taste, pleasure and enjoyment.