Story Highlight
– UK’s health crisis pressures NHS, costs set to rise.
– Two-thirds of UK population live with obesity.
– Governments prioritize tackling obesity and health issues.
– New regulations target high fat, sugar, salt products.
– Businesses must adapt to upcoming compliance regulations.
Full Story
The current state of public health in the United Kingdom is alarming, with a growing number of individuals facing obesity and related health issues. Recent statistics indicate that approximately two-thirds of adults are living with obesity or excess weight, while child obesity rates in the UK are among the highest across Europe. This health crisis is imposing significant financial burdens on the National Health Service (NHS), which currently spends £6.5 billion per year on treating conditions linked to obesity. Projections suggest that this cost could escalate to £9.7 billion by 2050 if effective measures are not implemented.
In response to these pressing health concerns, both the UK and Scottish governments have prioritised initiatives aimed at reducing obesity and improving overall public health. In England, the Labour Government has introduced its comprehensive 10-Year Health Plan, dubbed “Fit for the Future.” Meanwhile, the Scottish National Party (SNP) has developed a parallel initiative through the 10-Year Population Health Framework, signalling a unified approach across the nations to tackle these challenges.
As part of this agenda, a series of regulations targeting unhealthy food and beverage options are either currently in place or set to be enforced shortly. Stakeholders in the food and beverage industry must take proactive steps to adapt to these evolving legislative requirements, which are outlined below.
Firstly, there has been an intensified crackdown on products high in fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS). Legislation introduced this year has already imposed stricter rules on the hospitality sector regarding HFSS offerings. For instance, the Labour administration has banned unlimited sugary drink refills in various hospitality establishments across England, with Scotland expected to implement similar measures by autumn next year. Beginning in 2026, the Health and Care Act 2022 will introduce even more stringent guidelines pertaining to HFSS products. The objective is clear: to curtail consumer exposure to these unhealthy options, thereby reducing their purchase frequency.
Products classified as HFSS are identified using the Nutrient Profiling Model. According to this framework, food items scoring four points or more, and beverages scoring one point or more, fall into the HFSS category. As of 5 January 2026, regulations will mandate that no television advertisements for HFSS products air before the 9pm watershed on broadcast channels, as well as on Ofcom-regulated on-demand platforms. Additionally, a complete ban on paid online advertising for these products will come into effect, although certain small businesses—defined as those employing 250 or fewer individuals—will be exempted, along with specific forms of media like Spotify and business-to-business advertising.
Promotional campaigns for specific products, such as ‘meal deals’ or ‘dine in for two’ offers, will still be permissible, but restrictions will apply regarding their visibility on main landing pages.
Another pivotal piece of legislation is the proposed Product Regulation and Metrology Bill (PRAM), which aims to reform existing product safety legislation within the UK to align more closely with EU standards, where appropriate. The Bill aims to enhance safety protocols and provide better safeguards for consumers.
Through PRAM, the government may introduce new regulations that address product efficiency and marketing accuracy, while also enhancing measures for risk mitigation. Some sectors, particularly alcohol businesses, might find some relief as the government has clarified that measurements for pints will not fall under this new scope of regulation. This means that traditional pint measures can continue to be used in marketing and selling draught beer, cider, or milk in returnable containers.
However, food and drink businesses should remain vigilant, as the government’s renewed regulatory powers include the ability to investigate and impose sanctions, both civil and criminal. Additionally, the legislation empowers the government to appoint inspectors to conduct searches and seizures within the industry. This indicates that online marketplaces will also face stricter regulatory standards as secondary legislation is rolled out.
In tandem with these health-focused guidelines, environmental considerations are also shaping the regulatory landscape. Companies that produce over 25 tonnes of packaging and boast an annual revenue exceeding £1 million will be affected by the upcoming Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging and Packaging Waste) Regulations 2024. These regulations require businesses to provide comprehensive reports on their packaging activities to the government, thereby establishing a clear framework of accountability.
Notably, the expectations set by these regulations are not entirely new; however, they emphasise the need for increased diligence regarding branding, packaging, and overall operational practices. Reports must be submitted through an approved compliance scheme, which helps manage these obligations on behalf of businesses. This not only holds companies accountable for their packaging choices but also mandates the establishment of adequate reporting structures to assess packaging usage effectively.
It’s also important to note that larger corporations may incur costs associated with waste disposal, further highlighting the financial implications of these new environmental regulations.
With significant regulatory shifts anticipated in the food and drink sector, businesses must act promptly to ensure adherence to these upcoming changes. As the governments prioritise public health, safety, and environmental sustainability, companies are urged to conduct thorough reviews of their operational practices. This encompasses a reevaluation of marketing strategies, a critical analysis of supply chains, and an examination of packaging compliance.
Anticipating these changes is not merely an exercise in proactive governance; it will be essential for businesses aiming to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving regulatory framework. By taking these steps now, companies can position themselves for success as they prepare for the regulatory landscape of 2026 and beyond.
Our Thoughts
The article outlines significant health challenges in the UK, emphasizing the need for improved regulations in the food and drink sector. Key lessons include the importance of proactive compliance with health and safety regulations to prevent escalating issues like obesity. Businesses should adopt a preventive approach by aligning operations with the Health and Care Act 2022, particularly regarding the promotion of high fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS) products.
To avoid the severe health impacts highlighted, companies could have implemented stringent monitoring of product nutritional content and marketing practices well before such regulations came into effect. Furthermore, adhering to relevant regulations such as the Food Safety Act 1990, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, and forthcoming legislation like the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill would enhance consumer protection and safety.
Training staff on compliance and promoting healthier food options could also foster a culture of safety and well-being. By staying ahead of regulatory changes and prioritizing public health in their business models, food and drink establishments could mitigate risks associated with non-compliance and contribute positively to public health outcomes.
