Forth Valley Food Futures are keen to highlight that the Scottish Government has opened a public consultation on the details of proposed regulations to restrict promotions of food and drink high in fat, sugar or salt. The consultation seeks views on the detail of proposed regulations to restrict the promotions of HFSS foods where they are sold to the public, including across retail and out of home settings, both in-store and online. The types of foods being targeted include: confectionery, cakes, crisps, savoury snacks and soft drinks with added sugar – alongside promotions such as: multi-buys, temporary price reductions, meal deals and positioning restrictions, such as at checkouts and front of store.

The primary aim of the policy is to reduce the public health harms associated with the excess consumption of calories, fat, sugar and salt, including the risks of developing type 2 diabetes, various types of cancer and other conditions such as cardiovascular disease. Restricting the promotion of less healthy food and drink is intended to make it easier for people to spend less on HFSS products and make healthier choices, in line with our public health priority to create a Scotland where everyone eats well and has a healthy weight.

The consultation proposals have been informed by the feedback to the 2022 consultation and extensive engagement with stakeholders. The full consultation paper can be found on the Scottish Government website, you may find it useful to read or refer to while responding.

This consultation is open until 21 May 2024.

For further information, please visit the Forth Valley Food Futures and Scottish Government websites.