Earlier this week, The Department of Health and Social Care announced the launch of its plan to get the NHS back on its feet over the next decade, which includes a focus on combating obesity.
It has been reported that large restaurant and fast food chains could soon be required to tell the Government how many calories their customers consume on average under the plans, and that smaller operators may eventually be required to put calorie counts on menus.
UKHospitality is calling for the Government to collaborate and co-develop measures that can ‘make a positive, genuine difference to the country’s health in a way that’s viable for hospitality businesses’.
“We are calling for clarity and detail from Government on the new measures outlined in its 10 Year Health Plan, such as what mandatory reporting is set to look like, and which businesses are eligible,” says Kate Nicholls, chair of UKHospitality.
“Collaboration with the sector will be key as enforcing blunt and ill-suited measures upon business will not deliver genuine change but will instead add further red tape and cost. That cost will be passed onto the consumer, with hospitality businesses unable to absorb any further cost.
“The hospitality sector is up for the challenge of developing a healthier nation, and it’s undeniable we’re already doing a huge amount of work to do just that.
“It’s also important to remember that hospitality is a place for special occasion, and where many people gather for a treat. Whether it’s a trip to the local pub, dining out at a restaurant getting a takeaway, these are occasions that really matter to people and what they look forward. These instances aren’t a daily occurrence and likely to be a treat every few weeks or months.
“We need to ensure the sector isn’t pushed into new rules that end up tainting these experiences. Therefore, working in tandem with Government across a holistic approach that spans across consumers, food businesses, the supply chain and education, is the best way to deliver the food revolution it craves.
“Not only will this keep the doors hospitality businesses open, but it also protects a staple of British culture.”