This POSTnote considers the extent of the global counterfeit medicine trade, its impact in the UK and the technologies and policy options available to combat it. It also examines the risks and benefits of online pharmacy, one of the main ways in which counterfeits are distributed.
In 2006, 617 million school meals were served in England alone. The situation regarding school meals differs in the constituent countries of the UK. In England, new legislation on minimum nutritional standards in schools began in 2008 in primary schools and will come into force in secondary schools by September 2009. It consists of food- and nutrient-based standards for school food. The devolved administrations have already implemented similar legislation and face similar issues in improving school food. This note outlines children's nutritional requirements, the take-up of school meals in the UK, the capacity to enforce the standards and the impact of children's diet on behaviour and learning.
This POSTnote describes how a pandemic vaccine for UK use against the novel strain of influenza (flu) virus subtype H1N1 would be manufactured, and alternative techniques for vaccine development and manufacture.
This POSTnote looks at the latest scientific research, advice and recommendations for a diet to lower cancer risk and the consequences for health policy.
This POSTnote examines the state of research into human variability, and the prospects, challenges and policy implications of more personalised medical treatment.
This POSTnote looks at the influence of time in decision making, and looks at the implications for policy domains such as pensions, health and consumer affairs.
This briefing describes recent developments in food regulation and examines options to improve food hygiene in businesses through monetary penalties, training and the use of local "Scores on the Doors" schemes.