“Globesity” is the worldwide spread of obesity. The epidemic’s origins are attributed to the U.S., where most sugary drinks, snacks and fast food brands were born.

A Reuters news item dated January 21, 2004, reported that the U.S. had just succeeded “in stalling a global plan to fight an obesity epidemic.”

The World Health Organization had hoped to approve a plan to promote healthy food and lifestyles, drawn up with the help of member states, nutritional experts and the food industry.

“But the U.S., backed up by its powerful food industry, has questioned findings on which the U.N. agency's plan is based and called for more study.”

Diplomats said U.S. opposition reflected pressure by its domestic food lobby, especially the sugar industry. The plan recommends a lower intake of sugar, sodium and artery-clogging trans-fatty acids, and suggests governments set taxation and subsidy policies to promote healthy eating habits.

On January 7, 2004, Canada made news by banning soft drinks from all schools, in all Canadian provinces - adding critical mass to the movement to stand up for child health.