Report finds UK promotion rules miss foods widely seen as unhealthy
A report from the Obesity Health Alliance says current UK nutrition rules fail to capture many foods the public sees as unhealthy. It compared the 2004/05 Nutrient Profiling Model with a 2018 update and found that many products allowed in ads and supermarket promotions could be reclassified as less healthy. The group is urging ministers to act quickly on the updated model and a Healthy Food Standard.
The Obesity Health Alliance compared the government's 2004/05 Nutrient Profiling Model with a 2018 version. It examined items eligible for advertising during a popular family TV final and products placed in supermarket end-of-aisle promotions. Under the newer model, most of the TV items and 45 of 68 promoted products could be deemed less healthy.
Polling of 2,211 UK adults found many viewed specific burgers and crisps as unhealthy. The OHA wants ministers to release a consultation response, launch a Healthy Food Standard consultation, and implement both measures during this Parliament.
If rules are updated, shoppers and families could see fewer promotions and ads for products classified as less healthy, potentially shifting purchasing patterns. Food businesses may face reformulation or marketing changes, while children may have less exposure to such advertising. However, effects on diets and health would depend on implementation, enforcement, and broader affordability factors.