Issue # 6 - HFSS in 2024 - What does it mean for the industry?
2024 could be a transformative era for food and health regulations. At the heart of this potential revolution is the renewed focus on HFSS (high in fat, sugar, or salt) product regulations, and with upcoming UK general elections, the country could possibly see a greater regulatory focus on tackling the challenge of obesity – with the food industry being at the forefront of this.
The Ripple Effects of Delaying HFSS Regulations
In December 2021, the UK first announced HFSS restrictions as a key measure to address the obesity epidemic. Straight away, the regulations were met with mixed responses from parliamentarians and the food industry alike.
Initially set to go live in 2022, the enforcement has seen delays, granting the industry a grace period to adjust, plan & reformulate – something which was deemed necessary in the backdrop of a difficult global macroeconomic situation.
This postponement, whilst deemed necessary, has inadvertently added to confusion regarding compliance, standards, and the specifics of these restrictions. It has additionally attracted concerns amongst some health policy advocates regarding the ongoing battle with obesity and the additional strain it places on the NHS.
Anticipating Changes in Food and Health Regulations by 2025
Now planned to start in October 2025, the UK is set to regulate volume and advertising for HFSS products with the intention to tackle unhealthy eating patterns head-on and address public health concerns[1].
Health Policy Evolution in the Wake of Governmental Change
What may dictate the future effectiveness of HFSS is the outcome of the UK general election in 2024. A notable statistic is that 52% of Labour MPs back interventions to cut down the consumption of high-sugar foods and drinks, compared to only 18% of Conservative MPs[2].
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With 58% of the public in support of either a ban or taxation on high-sugar products, the forthcoming general election could add layers of complexity to these regulatory changes[2]. Should Labour ascend to power, we may see tighter regulations focussing on obesity – particularly in the food industry.
Despite no explicit mentions of advancing the HFSS regulation or introducing additional taxes, the increasing general consensus towards more focus on preventive measures hints at a broader regulatory landscape shift. Retailers & manufacturers must be agile in this respect - being able to adapt to the industry's approach to product development, marketing, and sales strategies.
Is the Food Industry Ready to Embrace Public Health in 2024?
As we probably gravitate towards tighter controls, driven by political will and public demand, the industry finds itself presented with an opportunity.
It is a moment not just for compliance, but for a deeper, more meaningful pivot— a call to action for the food sector to not only adhere to the law but to champion societal well-being.