New restrictions take effect in Scotland from October 1, changing how foods high in fat, sugar and salt are sold and placed in shops. The regulations, passed by Parliament last year, aim to encourage shoppers to make healthier food choices.
What the new rules cover
Businesses with more than 50 employees, including major supermarkets, will no longer be allowed to display pre-packaged foods in prominent locations. This bans items such as sugary soft drinks, confectionery, biscuits and breakfast cereals from shelves at entrances, checkouts and aisle ends.
Certain price promotions, including free refills of sugary soft drinks, will also be restricted. The rules apply both in-store and online, covering supermarkets, convenience stores, department stores and retail outlets in transport hubs like train stations.
Health goals behind the change
The measures are intended to create a healthier balance of products on offer, support healthier eating habits and lower obesity levels. Similar restrictions are already in place across England and Wales.
Public Health Minister Maree Todd said: “We want to make it easier for people to live healthier lives.” She noted that in Scotland, two out of three adults are overweight or obese, with those in the poorest areas more likely to be overweight and experience the most harm.
“We know that promotions and the prominent product placement can encourage over-consumption and impulse buying of foods with high levels of calories, fat, sugar and salt,” she added.
Products in scope
The new rules apply to certain categories of pre-packed high fat, sugar and salt foods and drinks, including sugary soft drinks, confectionery, biscuits, cakes, ice cream, savoury snacks, breakfast cereals, sweetened dairy products, and convenience meals such as pizzas, ready meals, chips and breaded foods.
Not all products in these categories are in scope. Products will be assessed using the UK 2004/05 Nutrient Profiling Model to determine whether they are high in fat, sugar or salt.
Retailer response
Ewan MacDonald-Russell, Deputy Head of the Scottish Retail Consortium, called the regulations “proportionate”. He said retailers are committed to helping consumers make healthier choices, citing price promotions on fresh fruit and vegetables, reformulation efforts, and traffic light labelling.
“We believe these new regulations are proportionate and will enhance the positive work being done by retailers in supporting consumers to make healthier food and drink choices,” he said. He added that retailers will invest around £20 million to deliver the policy.
