Major UK supermarkets including Tesco, Asda, Aldi, Morrisons, Sainsbury's, M&S and Lidl have been required to implement a nationwide ban on the placement of products high in fat, salt and sugar (HFSS) in shop entrances and near checkouts. The measures, introduced by the Department for Health and Social Care, apply to all UK supermarkets and came into force on October 1.
A further ban on multibuy deals for HFSS foods, such as buy one get one free, has been delayed until October 2023 due to the cost of living crisis. The government said it is reviewing its anti-obesity strategy, with reports that plans to tackle junk food could be scrapped by Prime Minister Liz Truss amid concerns over increasing pressure on consumers.
Karen Betts, chief executive of the Food and Drink Federation, welcomed the delay on volume promotions, stating it is good news for hard-pressed shoppers during a time of rapid food price inflation. She added that the industry looks forward to continuing to work with the government to tackle obesity and poor diets.
However, health campaigners expressed disappointment over the delay. Barbara Crowther, co-ordinator of the Children's Food Campaign, noted that multibuy restrictions result in people spending 22 per cent more on impulse bulk purchases of less healthy foods. She urged companies to use the extra time responsibly to focus price offers on healthier foods.
Mark Jones, a food and drink supply chain expert at law firm Gordons, emphasised that retailers must ensure they comply with the new regulations correctly, warning that “more short termism won’t make people thin.” He highlighted that 28% of adults in England are obese and a further 36% are overweight.
