Fast food giant McDonald’s has been criticised for trialling a home delivery service in an area already battling with weight issues.
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) Queensland has questioned McDonald’s decision to trial a seven days a week home delivery service in Hervey Bay, in the state’s south-east.
McDonald’s said population growth in the region was a key reason for its selection, but AMA Queensland president Dr Shaun Rudd said it was the population’s growth on the scales that had them most concerned.
“The population is already extremely overweight,” he said.
“It’s not a really good place to have easier access to junk food.”
Last week, AMA Queensland launched its Lighten Your Load campaign to highlight the obesity crisis facing regional and rural Queenslanders.
In Hervey Bay, two out of three adults are overweight or obese, and one in four children are overweight or obese.
“It’s pretty sad. These large corporations have a look where they’re going to get the most bang for their buck and they choose places like that,” Dr Rudd said.
“I think unfortunately they’ll sell more food and that means there’s going to be more burgers and more fries eaten by the population there, and they are already extremely overweight.
“AMA Queensland is very disappointed.”
McDonald’s Australia corporate communications manager Chris Grant said they would look at extending the service once the trial was completed.
“Hervey Bay was selected as the location for this trial after looking at factors including population growth and accessibility to ensure efficient deliver for customers and the operations of the restaurant,” Mr Grant said.
“Customers choosing to take advantage of this trial service can order from a nearly full range of menu items, including burgers, French fries, salads or wraps, and as always can review comprehensive nutrition and ingredient information on our website.”
It’s about balance and moderation: Fraser Coast Mayor
Fraser Coast Mayor Gerard O’Connell said the McDonald’s delivery trial would bring investment and employment opportunities to the region.
However, he has asked residents to take everything in balance and moderation.
“If you don’t do things in balance, if you rely on takeaway food being delivered to the door, don’t exercise and don’t keep a check on your health, that’s a recipe for disaster,” he said.
“We are pleased that we’ve got an increased investment and this means new jobs and new services.”