The draft Australian Dietary Guidelines incorporating the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating was released for public consultation in December 2011. A review is being undertaken by the NH& MRC and it is expected that the guidelines and the associated resources will be released at the end of 2012.
Infants at high risk of allergy who have a wide variety of bacteria in their large intestine during the first week of life, are less likely to develop eczema in their first 12 months compared to those high risk infants with a less diverse intestinal bacteria. These findings, from an Australian study, have again thrown light on the importance of the gut bacteria on the infant's immune system and their potential role in allergy development.
Recent adverse publicity about the undeclared addition of the ingredient permeate to milk has led consumers to question whether the currently promoted permeate free milk is a more nutritious and safe option for them and their families. Dairy Australia has prepared some facts on permeate together with answers to commonly asked questions.
Healthy Bones Week, sponsored by Dairy Australia, is on again! The week aims to raise awareness about the importance getting enough dietary calcium to develop and maintain healthy bones so that osteoporosis can be prevented in later years.
The Australian government has put together a National Food Plan green paper to ensure that Australia maintains a sustainable and globally competitive food supply which is affordable and nutritious. The plan is open for discussion and the government is encouraging public input by way of submission or attending public meetings by 30th September.
