FIVE THINGS ABOUT FOOD GUIDE.

1 ITS DAYS ARE NUMBERED

The federal government is moving to replace the Canada Food Guide in an attempt to stem obesity, announcing a consultation process Monday that will aim to use better recommendations and the latest scientific evidence.

2 TARGETING TRANS FATS, SALT

The revision is part of a multi-year, healthy eating strategy expected to include regulations to eliminate trans fats and cut the amount of salt in processed foods. Health Canada says four out of five Canadians are at risk of developing cancer, heart disease or Type-2 diabetes. Statistics show that six out of 10 adults are considered overweight and nearly one-third of young people also fall into the overweight or obese category.

3 MORE VEGETABLES, NATURALLY

Canadians are not eating enough vegetables, fruits, whole grains or milk and alternatives while certain nutrients such as calcium and fibre are under-consumed. Roughly 30 per cent of calories consumed come from foods that are high in sugar, fat and sodium.

4 NEW GUIDE BY END OF 2018

The Food Guide revision will include an online consultation on Health Canada’s website with health professionals and everyday Canadians until Dec. 8. The federal Health Department aims to have updated dietary guidelines by the end of 2018.

5 QUEBEC MODEL FOR MARKETING?

The government will also look to restrict marketing to children, as is already the case in Quebec. “There’s evidence that children in Quebec have less consumption of fast foods,” said Health Minister Jane Philpott.