Government to review impact of calorie counts on menus

The government is to review its anti-obesity policies to measure the impact of rules such as including calorie counts on menus.

It is understood an internal review is being undertaken in light of the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Hospitality businesses with more than 250 employees have had to list calorie information on menus since 6 April. The rules have not only impacted national chains but also smaller venues and fine dining restaurants that are situated within large hotels.

Chefs have warned the regulations could stifle creativity in the kitchen and prove difficult for customers with eating disorders.

The Guardian reports the review will be “deregulatory in focus” and could see the scrapping of many anti-obesity policies introduced under Boris Johnson’s government as part of a move by his successor Liz Truss to cut red tape for businesses.

Restrictions on multi-buy deals and advertising foods high in fat, salt or sugar have already been delayed for a year. Chef Jamie Oliver held a protest outside Downing Street over the decision where he said it would be “amazing” for more catering companies to voluntarily introduce anti-obesity measures.

The government began working on measures to tackle obesity in 2020 after evidence suggested those who are overweight were at an increased risk from coronavirus.

Image: UfaBizPhoto / Shutterstock