The UK government is trying ways out to reduce the purchases of junk foods by Britishers. At the same time, junk food manufacturers want to increase their sales. Therefore, the government is finding ways to put in regulations to discourage people from buying those foods. And one such regulation is banning of junk foods display at store entrance, aisles, and checkouts.
UK government and its new regulations on junk foods display
Obesity is on the rise. It has reached epidemic proportions. And it’s complications are also rising. Heart ailments, metabolic disorders, strokes, type 2 diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, early deaths are all attributed to excessive weight and an unhealthy lifestyle. This includes eating of junk food that are laced with high amounts of fats, sugars and salt. These are also called HFSS foods.
Junk foods display at checkout point (Source: Research gate)The UK government has brought about certain legislative measures in October 2022 in order to tackle obesity. In order to increase sales, the supermarket owners place junk foods at strategic points where it will catch the eyes of the shoppers especially kids. These include shop entrance, aisles, and checkout points.
Having realized this point, the government has asked for a ban on such junk food displays at these points. And a new study confirms that this legislation has the backing of the British public and the food industry.
The study
More than 100 people in the food supply chain of the UK were interviewed. Researchers from the University of Southampton and City, University of London conducted the survey. And the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) funded it. Professor Christina Vogel, Deputy Director of the Centre for Food Policy, City, University of London states:
“This novel food policy marks important changes that can help create healthier shopping environments for customers. But it is essential to monitor how well it is being implemented across all store types and identify what more is needed for it to have maximum benefit for everyone.”
Junk foods display at checkouts (Source: Alamy)She dubbed it a world leading step to promote healthy and sustainable diets.
UK Government Health Minister Neil O’Brien and his opinion
The UK Government Health Minister Neil O’Brien opined:
“Restrictions on the placement of unhealthy foods stop shops from using children and ‘pester power’ to hassle adults into buying things. But they also reduce children’s calorie consumption, driving down obesity, and could save the NHS over £4 billion. These reforms are ensuring healthier food is more widely available, easily accessible, and more visible in our shops – helping everyone to live healthier lives.”
Kids are vulnerable and targeted with junk food ads and displays (Source: NBC news)He is happy that consumers have backed this move. The journal BMC Medicine has published this study. But experts feel that though the step is great, loopholes should be identified and closed. And small businesses should be supported. Moreover, government should look into decreasing the pricing of healthy foods. Considering the current inflation, this is important so that more and more people choose healthy foods over the cheaper junk foods.