Calorie labelling on menus became a legal requirement for restaurant groups employing over 250 staff in the UK back in April – but now the government could be looking to drop them altogether.
Ministers have ordered an official review of its anti-obesity strategy. As a result, menu calorie counts could now be scrapped as part of a ‘drive to cut red tape’, reports The Guardian.
The new rules were introduced on April 6 and require larger hospitality businesses to display calorie counts ‘clearly and prominently’ along with the statement ‘adults need around 2000kcal a day’.
But now a new review, described by Whitehall sources as “deregulatory in focus”, could see the policy ditched entirely, meaning many cafes, takeaways and restaurants in the borough that have invested in printing new menus will now likely find them redundant.
When calorie labelling came into force, it was widely criticised by eating disorder charities, restauranteurs, chefs and food critics alike.
Then Public Health Minister Jo Churchill, said at the time: “Our aim is to make it as easy as possible for people to make healthier food choices for themselves and their families, both in restaurants and at home. That is why we want to make sure everyone has access to accurate information about the food and drink we order.
“These measures form an important building block in our strategy to support and encourage people in achieving and maintaining a healthier weight.”
If the government scraps its entire anti-obesity strategy then the ban on sugary products being displayed at checkouts as well as “buy one get one free” multi-buy deals in shops could also be lifted. The restrictions on advertising certain products on TV before the 9pm watershed could also be ditched.
The Obesity Health Alliance, a grouping of 50 health charities and medical organisations, told The Guardian “They are deeply concerned”.
“It would be reckless to waste government and business time and money rowing back on these obesity policies, which are evidence-based and already in law. These policies are popular with the public, who want it to be easier to make healthier choices,” said Katharine Jenner, the alliance’s director.
