Nutrition policy is taking shape in Europe.

OBJECTIVE: The present paper aims at describing the current status of nutrition policy in the WHO European Region and to discuss the implications for public health. The stages of policy development in the Region are illustrated and achievements in specific aspects of food and nutrition policy are highlighted.

DESIGN: The analysis is based on a WHO survey on nutrition policies in the WHO European Region in 2005 with information from forty-eight out of fifty-three countries in the Region. Based on the findings, countries were categorized according to their stage in policy development. Additionally, fifty policy documents related to nutrition and published by a national body were analysed according to certain criteria of food and nutrition policy.

RESULTS: Most Member States (n 46) have available a policy document related to nutrition and forty have a mechanism to implement it. Collaboration between sectors is taking place in thirty-one countries. Implementation tools, such as food-based dietary guidelines and monitoring and surveillance systems, are in place in twenty-seven countries. The analysis of policy documents revealed that actions addressing the individual with information or education are well developed. Actions addressing environmental determinants, such as food availability, affordability and accessibility, are indicated in only a few policies.

CONCLUSIONS: Food and nutrition policies appear to have developed successfully in the past decade. However, implementation of the policies seems to be a major challenge due to lack of funds, political commitment and coordination. More support should be given to the implementation and evaluation of policies and a shift towards stronger environmental approaches is needed.