Sainsbury's has ignited a heated debate after relocating crisps and sugary snacks away from checkout areas in its stores, a move seen as part of Labour's broader crackdown on obesity. The supermarket giant claims the shift promotes healthier choices, but critics accuse the policy of disproportionately affecting budget-conscious families.
Retailers Under Pressure
The repositioning of snack aisles follows mounting political pressure on retailers to support public health initiatives. Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting recently praised supermarkets for "doing their bit" to combat obesity, but campaigners argue such measures penalise those relying on affordable, calorie-dense foods.
Mixed Reactions from Shoppers
While health advocates welcome the change, many customers have expressed frustration at having to navigate larger stores for staple snack items. "It's another example of nanny state overreach," complained one shopper in London. "They're making life harder for people just trying to feed their families."
The Obesity Policy Landscape
The government's anti-obesity strategy includes proposed restrictions on junk food advertising and mandatory calorie labelling. However, nutrition experts remain divided on whether aisle placement significantly impacts purchasing behaviour among time-poor, cash-strapped consumers.
As the debate continues, Sainsbury's maintains its commitment to "helping customers make healthier choices" while still offering value across its product range.
