Obesity has reached epidemic levels in recent years. Currently, the average obesity rate in the European Union is 15.5%, whilst in Britain it is 24.5% of the total population.Overweight and obesity in childhood are known to have a significant impact on both physical and psychological health. Whilst a great deal of research continues on the mechanism behind the development of obesity, it is clear that it is a condition with multiple causes. Environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and cultural environment each play a pivotal role in the rising prevalence of obesity worldwide. In general, overweight and obesity are assumed to be the results of an increase in caloric and fat intake. Furthermore, there is a great deal of supporting evidence that excessive sugar intake by soft drink, increased portion size, and steady decline in physical activity have been playing major roles in the rising rates of obesity all around the world. Consequently, both over-consumption of calories and reduced physical activity have had a direct impact on levels of childhood obesity.The general consensus amongst researchers is that prevention could be the key strategy for controlling the current epidemic of obesity. Until now, most approaches have focused on changing the behaviour of individuals in diet and exercise. It seems, however, that these strategies have had little impact in terms of reversing obesity levels. It is difficult to reduce excessive weight once it becomes established, and therefore, the focus needs to shift towards children and early intervention strategies. Prevention may be achieved through a variety of interventions targeting built environment, physical activity, and diet. Some of these potential strategies for intervention in children can be implemented by targeting pre-school institutions, schools or after-school care services as natural settings for influencing the diet and physical activity.This timely International Symposium reignites the debate on how to work towards an EU-wide strategy on promoting healthy diets and stimulating physical activity. It will provide a platform for the discussion of a better European regulatory framework aimed at strengthening the evaluation and interventions to promote healthy eating habits and determine factors in food habit formation. The Symposium will support the exchange of ideas and encourage delegates to engage in thought-provoking topical debate whilst sharing best practices and lessons learned.