UK government dropped health push after lobbying by ultra-processed food firms

The UK government's guidance encouraging retailers to promote minimally processed and nutritious foods was abandoned following lobbying efforts by major ultra-processed food companies.

1. The guidance aimed to shift promotions towards healthier options, potentially benefiting consumers by improving diets and making fresh foods more affordable.
2. Despite the new regulations targeting high-fat, salt, or sugar (HFSS) foods, the initial push for promoting minimally processed foods was dropped due to pressure from the Food and Drink Federation (FDF).
3. The FDF, representing large food corporations, successfully lobbied the government to remove references to promoting minimally processed foods from the guidance documents.
4. Critics argue that the altered guidance still allows many ultra-processed foods to be classified as "healthier options," undermining public health goals.
5. The lobbying campaign brought to light concerns over how the government formulates nutrition policy, particularly amid rising rates of obesity and health issues linked to ultra-processed food.
6. Emails obtained through a freedom of information request revealed intense lobbying efforts by the FDF to influence government guidance and policy changes.
7. The withdrawal of the original guidance was confirmed in early January 2023 and remains effective as of now, limiting transparency on food promotions.
8. The FDF boasted about this lobbying victory, which indicates a prioritization of corporate interests over public health in food policy.
9. Public health experts emphasize the negative impact of ultra-processed foods on health outcomes, linking high consumption to increased obesity rates and related chronic diseases.
10. The current government's spokesperson highlighted ongoing actions to combat obesity and improve public health, despite the controversial rollback of the original guidance.