The UK government has announced new measures to tackle obesity, including updates to regulations on foods high in fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS). The changes focus on promoting healthier food options and providing businesses with more flexibility in meeting sales targets for healthier products.
A key shift is the potential repeal of the HFSS promotion ban, which includes restrictions on multibuy deals and the placement of high-sugar, high-fat items in supermarkets. These measures were initially scheduled to take effect on 1 October. Instead, the government aims to introduce “smarter regulation,” allowing businesses to choose how they meet healthy sales targets. Options include reformulating products, changing store layouts, offering discounts on healthy foods, or adjusting loyalty schemes.
The existing HFSS regulations, based on a 2004 nutrient profiling model, will also be updated. The government believes that this update could prevent 170,000 cases of adult obesity. However, the proposed changes come with challenges, including technical and financial implications for the food industry, particularly around alignment with existing advertising laws and mandatory reporting requirements.
In addition to the HFSS revisions, the government has introduced several other measures. These include mandatory reporting on healthy food sales, targets to boost healthy food sales, updates to alcohol labelling, and an increase in the value of Healthy Start Vouchers. There will also be further consultations on expanding the Soft Drinks Levy and introducing new restrictions on alcohol and energy drinks for children.