Brief by Shorts91 NewsDesk / 04:29pm on 17 May 2025,Saturday Health & Wellness
The UK government abandoned guidance promoting discounts on minimally processed, nutritious foods after lobbying from the Food and Drink Federation (FDF), representing major ultra-processed food producers like Nestlé and Coca-Cola. Initially, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) advised retailers to offer deals on healthier options, including fresh produce and whole grains. However, following persistent lobbying, the DHSC revised the guidance in June 2023 to vaguely promote “healthier options,” a term critics argue allows inclusion of many ultra-processed foods. Emails obtained under freedom of information laws reveal the FDF’s efforts to influence DHSC policy. This shift affects millions, as ultra-processed foods comprise half of the typical British diet and up to 80% for vulnerable populations. (PC: The Guardian)
