Regulations to restrict the promotion and placement of foods high in fat, salt and sugar will be laid in the Senedd today (11 February 2025), marking a crucial step in Wales’ fight against rising obesity levels.
The Food (Promotion and Presentation) (Wales) Regulations 2025 aim to reshape how shops promote less healthy foods, targeting what experts identify as one of the key drivers in the obesity challenge.
The regulations will:
- restrict promotions that can encourage over-consumption, such as multi-buy offers and free refills of sugary drinks
- restrict the presentation of foods high in fat, sugar and salt products at prime selling locations in stores, such as entrances and checkouts and on website homepages
- apply to medium and large businesses with 50 or more employees
The restrictions largely mirror rules already introduced in England. There will be a 12-month implementation period before they are introduced in March next year, if they are approved by the Senedd in a vote next month.
The restrictions on where unhealthy foods can be displayed and promoted are designed to prevent impulse purchases and over-consumption.
The Welsh Government will publish comprehensive guidance to support businesses and local authorities in implementing these changes, which largely mirror similar measures already introduced in England.
For further information please select the following link: New curbs on unhealthy food promotions to tackle Wales' rising obesity levels | GOV.WALES