Is it just me or does it seem strange that chocolate maker Nestle will buy Jenny Craig?

Nestle executives said the $600 million move shows the company is turning over a new leaf. "With this strategic acquisition, the group takes another important step in its transformation process into a nutrition, health and wellness company," said Nestle Chairman and Chief Executive Peter Brabeck-Letmathe.

"The rise of obesity and the resulting metabolic disorders, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, is a major public health concern, not only in the USA but also the world over," Brabeck-Letmathe said.

Perhaps I'm cynical, but I think it has more to do with combining two of America's most powerful obsessions, indulging and dieting.

It's smart business. First you get them snacking, then you get them dieting. The way most of us ping-pong between the two, myself included, it's a definite recipe for success.

-- Amanda Barrett