Ban on two-for-one junk meals offers delayed amid cost-of-living disaster
T
he Government will delay its deliberate ban on two-for-one junk meals offers – a key anti-obesity measure – for an additional two years amid the continued value of dwelling disaster.
Rishi Sunak will shelve the anticipated measure focusing on multi-buy promotions on merchandise excessive in fats, sugar or salt (HFSS) to keep away from limiting client choices whereas costs stay excessive.
The coverage, which shaped a part of the anti-obesity technique, had already been pushed again to October 2023 which sparked hypothesis that it could possibly be dropped fully.
It has now been delayed till October 2025 whereas the Government continues to evaluate the influence it might have on buyers and companies, Downing Street mentioned.
It is correct that we think about fastidiously the influence on shoppers and companies, whereas making certain we’re hanging the stability with our vital mission to cut back weight problems and assist folks reside more healthy lives.
The transfer is prone to disappoint well being campaigners who’ve beforehand expressed concern about Government inaction.
But it was welcomed by the Association of Convenience Stores which mentioned it might assist shoppers who’re “facing enough challenges with inflation without legislation like this further increasing shopping bills”.
The Prime Minister mentioned: “I firmly believe in people’s right to choose – and at a time when household budgets are under continuing pressure from the global rise in food prices, it is not fair for Government to restrict the options available to consumers on their weekly shop.
“It is right that we consider carefully the impact on consumers and businesses, while ensuring we’re striking the balance with our important mission to reduce obesity and help people live healthier lives.”
Health Secretary Steve Barclay insisted the Government stays slicing ready lists by tackling weight problems which prices the NHS round £6.5 billion a yr and is the second greatest reason for most cancers”.
He pointed to the launch of pilots for the newest anti-obesity medication as one such measure.
Following the earlier delay of the ban, Barbara Crowther, co-ordinator of the Children’s Food Campaign, mentioned the organisation was “disappointed” whereas celeb chef Jamie Oliver protested exterior Downing Street.