UK Implements Regulations to Curb Obesity
The British government has imposed a complete ban on promotional sales such as "buy one, get one free" for junk food, including snacks, candy, and carbonated drinks sold in supermarkets. This policy is part of efforts to address the obesity problem.
According to the BBC, starting from October 1, 2025 (local time), large supermarkets, major retail stores, and online distribution channels across England are prohibited from conducting promotions such as "1+1" deals or bundle discounts for unhealthy foods deemed to cause obesity. Restaurants are also no longer allowed to offer unlimited refills of sugar-sweetened beverages, such as carbonated drinks.
The British government explained that this measure is a starting point for preventing obesity, particularly to improve children's health. Health authorities stated, "Obesity deprives children of a healthy start in life, increases the risk of lifelong disease, and places a significant burden on the National Health Service (NHS)."
The items subject to this measure are those classified by the government as "obesity-inducing foods." These include sugar-sweetened beverages such as carbonated drinks and lemonade, as well as snacks, chocolate, candy, ice cream, cakes, pastries, and certain frozen pizzas. Beginning in January next year, advertising these foods online will be prohibited, and TV advertisements before 9 p.m. will also be restricted.
This policy was first proposed in 2021 by then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson, but its implementation was delayed several times due to rising living costs and other factors before finally being enacted now. Greg Fell, president of the Association of Directors of Public Health, said, "Although it is late, it is welcome," but added, "There is still a long way to go." He further expressed concern, stating, "Obesity has increased at an unprecedented rate over the years, spreading more rapidly in lower-income areas and becoming a major cause of health inequality."
The relevant industry is seen adapting to the policy changes. Some major retailers, such as Tesco and Sainsbury's, have already implemented their own restrictions on such promotions. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) stated, "The majority of our members are complying with the new regulations," and explained, "To help consumers make better choices, companies are responding in various ways, including reformulating products, providing calorie information, and adjusting portion sizes."
Wales is also scheduled to introduce similar regulations next year, and Scotland is expected to follow suit. The obesity rate in the United Kingdom has reportedly surged over the past several decades. Currently, in England, one in four adults and one in five sixth-grade elementary school students are classified as obese.
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