The UK government has announced a further delay to its planned ban on two-for-the-price-of-one ‘junk-food’ offers.
The ban, initially scheduled for October 2023 as part of the government’s anti-obesity strategy, has been postponed until October 2025. This decision comes after the previous delay pushed it back from May 2022.
The government cited the rising cost of living as the reason for not implementing the ban on multi-buy deals for food high in fat, salt, or sugar (HFSS). The extension will provide the opportunity to review the impact of the restrictions on consumers and businesses, considering the current global economic situation.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasized the importance of consumer choice and acknowledged the financial pressures faced by households due to increasing food prices worldwide. While the government aims to reduce obesity and promote healthier lifestyles, it also recognizes the need to strike a balance.
Health campaigners have expressed disappointment and concern over the extended delay. They argue that the ban on multi-buy promotions is a vital part of the evidence-based strategy to combat childhood obesity. Scrapping or further delaying the policy could worsen health inequalities and hinder access to healthier food options.
The ban would have targeted BOGOF (buy one, get one free) deals on products such as crisps and sweets. It comes amid calls for stricter taxation on junk food and a proposed ban on junk-food advertising aimed at children.
Last month, French dairy giant Danone’s UK and Ireland president, James Mayer, advocated for higher taxes on junk food as a necessary government intervention. Meanwhile, the opposition Labour Party has pledged to implement a junk-food advertising ban if elected into power.
In December, the government also postponed its plan to ban junk-food TV advertisements before the 9pm watershed, pushing the restrictions to 1 October 2025.
