Is it time to say goodbye to crisps and fizzy drinks in meal deals?
Nan Zhang
04/03/24
(Image credit: Nan Zhang)
Crisps and fizzy drinks could be removed from meal deals under the Scottish Government's plans to tackle the obesity crisis.
Plans to restrict the promotion of food and drink high in fat, sugar and salt were revealed by the Scottish Government last week. This includes putting limits on multi-buys, unlimited refills, temporary price reductions as well as meal deals.
Meal deals, which normally contain a sandwich, a snack and a drink are popular with Scots, especially those looking for a convenient bargain lunch.
According to a recent survey, 24% of adults in Scotland purchase a lunchtime or evening meal deal at least once a week. With 88% of people choosing less healthy snacks, such as crisps or confectionary.
Last year, a study found that 65% of adults, and 28% of children in Scotland are living with obesity and related conditions - such as type 2 diabetes, various types of cancer and heart diseases, with diet as the main contributory factor.
Ministers suggest that the promotion of HFSS items encourages people to buy what they don’t really need. Jenni Minto, Minister for Public Health said in a statement: “By restricting the promotion of less healthy food and drink where they are sold to the public, we can encourage healthier options and make it easier for people to eat well.”
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(Image credit: Nan Zhang)
However, the value of these deals is very attractive to the consumer.
Ewan MacDonald-Russell, Deputy Head of the Scottish Retail Consortium, told Blether Magazine: “These proposals will prevent retailers competing on price on any of the products caught by these rules, meaning shoppers miss out both on the benefits of competition but also from any falls in inflation.”
The Scottish Grocers Federation stated that: “Placing an additional burden on struggling stores at this time will mean that customers inevitably must pay more for their shopping, and businesses are less viable overall.”
Blether magazine asked Tesco and Waitrose for comment. Tesco did not respond to the request and while Waitrose refused to comment, a spokesman referred us to health targets on their website.
The consultation is open to the public until 21st May 2024. You can click here to make your voice heard.