The Food Industry Group (FIG) is shocked at the hypocrisy of FOE (Fight the Obesity Epidemic), a group claiming to be concerned about New Zealanders' obesity levels.

According to FIG Chairman, Jeremy Irwin, FOE's ill-informed criticism of the McDonald's and Weight Watchers announcement is proof that the group is simply anti-business, and is not in touch with real New Zealanders who want healthier choices when they're eating out.

"Groups like FOE claim to be concerned about the food on offer, but when nutritionally sound, lower kilojoule options are developed and marketed, they simply criticise.

"New Zealand consumers want convenience and choices. FIG believes they and any reasonable people concerned about obesity will welcome the new meal options," says Irwin.

FIG went on to say that its members - a broad range of food manufacturers, retailers, media companies and advertising agencies - had collectively changed the sector in New Zealand.

"Hundreds of reformulations; lower salt, sugar and fat options; new package sizes; nutrition labelling and education campaigns have made it far easier for people to understand and select what's right for them.

"FIG believes that this collective approach, working with communities and pragmatic health experts, has had a positive impact on the food landscape and will contribute to improvements in health over time," said Irwin.