The Irish food and drinks industry has acknowledged it has a major role in tackling the increasing prevalence of obesity.
In its first policy statement on diet and physical activity, Food and Drink Industry Ireland (FDII), the industry's representative body, said the rise in the numbers of obese people in Ireland was "a worrying shift which must be addressed immediately".
It comes as research shows six in 10 Irish people are concerned about obesity in children.
According to the statement, the FDII believes "the responsibility of addressing the problem of obesity in Ireland must involve the active participation of many groups, including governments, health professionals, the food industry, the media and consumers".
It comes as representatives of the food industry are set to join the Government's task force on obesity, which is to be announced this week or early next week.
According to the policy statement, Irish food and drink companies were already involved in promoting healthy living and physical activity, and strive "to be at the forefront" of promoting healthy diets.
Ms Fiona Lalor, of the FDII, said while the industry felt that the primary responsibility relating to diet rested with the individual and parents in the case of children, "we recognise it is a problem, and that society hasn't taken control of the issue".
The FDII policy was launched yesterday at its annual conference, which was also told by food safety representatives that there was a link between advertising of food and obesity in children.
Mr Barney Whelan, marketing director of the Food Safety Promotion Board, also revealed research which shows 62 per cent of people in Ireland are concerned at obesity in children. Some 56 per cent were also concerned about adverts to children.
He warned that advertising was having a significant impact on obesity levels by promoting products high in sugar.
The board has proposed new limits and regulations on advertising, with stipulations that high salt, fat and sugar products should only be advertised in the context of a balanced diet.