Understanding policies that lead to food reformulation in the UK

Background to the project

The overconsumption of sugar and excess calories remains a significant public health challenge in the UK, particularly among children and adolescents, leading to increased risks of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental decay. National dietary guidelines are often exceeded, driven by the consumption of specific high-sugar and calorie-dense food categories, including cakes, biscuits, chocolates, and sweet confectionery. The nutritional composition of these ready-to-eat products is primarily determined by food manufacturers, making population-wide dietary change challenging through consumer education alone. Instead, changing the nutritional profile of these foods through targeted reformulation can lead to improvements in public health.

In response, the UK government launched a voluntary sugar reduction programme in 2016, aiming for a 20% reduction in sugar content by 2020. While an overall reduction of 3.4% was achieved, with notable success in certain categories such as breakfast cereals, progress varied. The sugar reduction programme has been accompanied by announcements of additional policies, such as proposed restrictions on advertising and promotions of unhealthy food and drinks. It has been reported that these policies have led to some reformulation efforts, as they are perceived by certain companies to be stronger measures.

What the studentship will encompass

This PhD project seeks to explore how various public health nutrition policies have influenced reformulation efforts within the food industry. The research aims to inform the development of more effective policies for reducing sugar and calorie intake and help address the associated health burdens.

The successful candidate will be involved in identifying and synthesising relevant UK government policy documents from 2015 to the present, including consultations related to direct (e.g., the sugar reduction programme) and indirect (e.g., advertising restrictions) reformulation efforts. Where needed, Freedom of Information requests will be employed to obtain comprehensive data.

Key aims of the PhD project include:

1. Collaborating with public involvement partners to co-design a robust study focused on analysing policy documents related to sugar and calorie reformulation.
2. Developing a theory-based analytical framework using content and thematic analysis to quantitatively and qualitatively assess interpretations of ‘reformulation’ across different stakeholder coalitions, in light of policy announcements, implementations, and contextual developments.

This comprehensive synthesis will enhance understanding of how reformulation is perceived across the industry and among policymakers, facilitating the creation of more impactful public health policies aimed at reducing sugar and calorie intake.

Training and Development

The PhD student will receive training in evidence synthesis, participatory research, and qualitative research methods. This unique opportunity will equip the candidate with the skills and expertise to contribute to transformative public health research and policy development.

Details of supervision

This project will be supervised by Dr Kawther Hashem ([email protected]) and Professor Oyinlola Oyebode ([email protected]) at the Centre for Public Health and Policy, Wolfson Institute of Population Health.

The Centre for Public Health and Policy houses the Research and Action on Salt and Obesity (RASO) Unit, which aims to improve population health and food environments through our research and impact on the nutritional quality of food and drink. With a track record of success in reducing salt and sugar we inform policy, influence the food industry, raise awareness and build advocacy.

The Wolfson Institute of Population Health (WIPH) is an exciting and dynamic environment, home to more than 450 staff, 100 PhD students and c500 postgraduate taught students. It harnesses expertise across a wide range of population-based research and education activities and aims to be an internationally recognised centre of excellence in population health, primary care and preventive medicine.

QMUL provides an exceptional environment for this project. Its research outputs, impact performance, and research environment were highly rated in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), where QMUL was ranked 7th in the UK for research quality. QMUL is one of the most diverse research-led universities globally, with equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) principles embedded throughout all strategic and day-to-day activities.

Requirements:

Candidates are required to have a good Bachelor’s degree (minimum 2:1) or Master’s degree in a relevant social science, political science, public health, public health nutrition and or nutrition. Previous experience of qualitative research in food and nutrition policy would be advantageous. They should have a commitment and strong interest in interdisciplinary research, be motivated and be prepared to work independently.

How to apply

The deadline for applications is 12:00 (GMT) 27^th January. Late applications will not be considered. Interviews will be scheduled for either week commencing 24^th February 2024.

To be considered for this PhD, apply via the MySIS application portal

1)     A CV (maximum 2 pages)

2)     A Personal statement (maximum 1 page) that should include: why you are interested in undertaking this project and what relevant existing skills, training, and knowledge you would bring to the project.

Shortlisted applicants will also be required to provide transcripts and two references.