Following its consultation in 2024 on Restricting Promotions of Food and Drink High in Fat, Sugar or Salt (HFSS), the Scottish Government will bring forward regulations in Autumn to help create a food environment which better supports healthier choices.
The Scottish Government’s intention that restrictions in Scotland will align with policy in England and Wales. The regulations will seek to reduce the public health harms associated with the excess consumption of calories, fat, sugar or salt, including the risks of developing type 2 diabetes, various types of cancer and other conditions such as cardiovascular disease.
It is proposed that a 12 month lead in time from when regulations are laid to them coming into force will allow business and local authorities to prepare for implementation and enforcement of the regulations.
Local authorities will be responsible for enforcing the policy using powers in the Food Safety Act 1990 and the Food (Scotland) Act 2015. The Scottish Government stated they will work with appropriate stakeholders to produce guidance material that supports implementation and enforcement of the policy.
Read more about the consultation and analysis here- Restricting promotion of food and drink high in fat, sugar or salt: consultation analysis – SG response – gov.scot
These proposed regulations is a step the Scottish Government are taking to create an environment where it is easier to eat well and maintain a healthy weight – this forms a key part of the longer-term, whole system approach to preventing obesity that they have set out in our 10-year Population Health Framework. Read more about the Population Health Framework here – Creating a healthier Scotland – gov.scot
