In 2024, the Scottish Government will initiate regulations aimed at restricting promotions of foods and drinks high in fat, sugar, or salt (HFSS). These new measures, set to be implemented in Autumn, are designed to foster a food environment that promotes healthier choices.
Additionally, the Scottish Government plans to synchronize its restrictions with existing policies in England and Wales. This alignment will focus on food and drink categories that are significant contributors to caloric intake, fat, sugar, or salt within the Scottish diet. Particular attention will be given to items causing concern regarding childhood obesity, such as confectionery, cakes, crisps, and sugary soft drinks.
“These regulations will seek to reduce the public health harms associated with the excess consumption of calories, fat, sugar, or salt, including the risks of developing type 2 diabetes, various types of cancer, and other conditions such as cardiovascular disease,” stated Jenni Minto, Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health.
“I believe this is an important step setting the path for consideration of what more can be done, in line with the ambition set out in our long-term Population Health Framework, to reduce the health harms caused by poor diet.”
In response, David Thomson, chief executive officer of Food and Drink Federation Scotland, remarked: “We welcome the decision from the Scottish Government to align with the regulations in other parts of the UK. This creates a level playing field for businesses selling into Scottish stores compared with England and Wales.”
“We look forward to working in partnership with the Scottish Government to help prepare our businesses for the regulations coming into force. At the same time, our Reformulation for Health Programme will continue to support Scotland’s food and drink companies in making their products healthier.”
