Junk food addiction: BBC News Review

Summary

In this BBC Learning English News Review episode, Neil and Beth discuss the growing concerns over ultra-processed foods, with scientists suggesting these foods may be as addictive as drugs. The video explores the idea of labeling such foods with 'addictive' warnings to curb consumption and tackle issues like obesity. Key vocabulary includes 'labelled,' 'tackle,' and 'slapping,' with metaphorical uses explained. The hosts provide insights into how these terms are used in everyday language and their relevance to the ongoing public health discussion. Watch for more on this intriguing topic!

Takeaways

• 😀 Some scientists believe ultra-processed foods should have 'addictive' labels to warn consumers about their addictive nature.
• 😀 A major review found that 1 in 7 adults and 1 in 8 children are already addicted to ultra-processed foods.
• 😀 'Labelled' can mean putting a literal label on something or describing it in a specific way, often unfairly (e.g., calling someone a 'liar').
• 😀 The metaphorical use of 'labelled' refers to how people or objects are described, sometimes unfairly or simplistically.
• 😀 'Tackle' means to deal with a problem, often used in a metaphorical way to talk about addressing issues like obesity or climate change.
• 😀 The word 'slapping' is used metaphorically in this context, meaning to attach warning labels quickly and urgently to junk food.
• 😀 The 'slap' metaphor implies a sense of aggression and urgency, highlighting the pressing nature of addressing food addiction.
• 😀 The idea of using warning labels on food aims to help reduce obesity by making consumers aware of the addictive nature of certain foods.
• 😀 Examples of 'tackle' include addressing issues like crime, climate change, or obesity in various contexts.
• 😀 At the end of the video, viewers are encouraged to explore related content on fast food's impact on the brain, further emphasizing the topic's relevance.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video script?

The video discusses the addictive nature of ultra-processed foods and the idea of labeling them as 'addictive' to help combat obesity.

What does the term 'addictive' mean in the context of the script?

In the script, 'addictive' refers to the ability of ultra-processed foods to cause dependency in people, similar to the effects of drugs.

What is the significance of the word 'labelled' in the first headline?

'Labelled' refers to the idea of putting a clear, direct warning on certain foods, specifically calling them 'addictive' to inform the public of their potential risks.

How does the word 'tackle' relate to obesity in the script?

'Tackle' is used metaphorically to mean addressing or dealing with obesity, similar to how one would try to beat or overcome an opponent in a game, like football.

What is the metaphorical use of the word 'slapping' in the last headline?

'Slapping' is used metaphorically to suggest the urgent and aggressive action of attaching warning labels to junk food. It emphasizes the immediate need for action.

What connection is made between ultra-processed foods and addiction in the script?

The script suggests that ultra-processed foods can lead to addiction-like symptoms, with 1 in 7 adults and 1 in 8 children already reported to be addicted.

Why do scientists suggest that ultra-processed foods should be labelled as 'addictive'?

Scientists believe that labeling these foods as 'addictive' could help reduce consumption and, in turn, tackle the obesity crisis by raising awareness of their potential harm.

What does the phrase 'labelled a liar' mean?

The phrase refers to being unfairly described or categorized as a liar after a single instance of dishonesty, showing the metaphorical use of 'labelled' beyond just products.

How does 'slap down' function as a phrasal verb in the script?

'Slap down' means to criticize or reject an idea, as shown when Beth dismisses Neil’s suggestion for more examples in a lighthearted way.

What is the purpose of the vocabulary words 'labelled', 'tackle', and 'slapping' in the script?

The vocabulary words are used to explain how language can be used metaphorically to describe actions or situations, such as labeling foods, tackling problems like obesity, or slapping on labels urgently.