Michelle Obama hails 1.5 trillion calorie cut efforts by food manufacturers

London, May 18 (ANI): US First Lady Michelle Obama has succeeded in getting US food manufacturers to cut 1.5 trillion calories from their products for her anti-obesity campaign.

Sixteen corporations, which make up 25 per cent of the American food supply chain, have agreed to trim a total of one trillion calories by 2012 and 1.5 trillion calories by 2015.

"They've agreed to reformulate their foods in a number of ways, including by addressing fat and sugar content, by introducing lower-calorie options, and by reducing the portion sizes of existing single-serve products," The Telegraph quoted Mrs. Obama as saying.

"This commitment represents a major step forward to providing Americans with healthier choices so that they can choose to lead healthier lives.

"In the weeks and months to come, we expect to hear more announcements regarding specific steps on reducing sugar, fat and sodium in the foods that our children eat," she said.

Mrs. Obama has been tirelessly campaigning against obesity, promoting exercise and highlighting healthy eating and diet.

The companies who signed up will incorporate changes in their food products - from changing various ingredients to changing portion sizes of individual snacks, through the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation, a coalition of firms and trade organizations.

"The First Lady has shown tremendous leadership in calling for national action to end childhood obesity," said David Mackay, chairman of the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation and the chief executive of Kellogg Company.

"Through this effort, the companies... will provide consumers with additional healthier food options that help them achieve and maintain a healthy diet." (ANI)