Will smoothies and yogurts be classified as junk food in the UK?

The Labour party is planning to update nutrient profiling models that could potentially classify items like smoothies and yogurts as 'junk food'.

Why are UK food industry leaders concerned about new junk food rules?

Industry representatives are concerned that the reclassification of items like smoothies and yogurts as 'junk food' could lead to higher prices and confuse consumers.

What is the government's reasoning for changing junk food classifications?

The government believes these changes are necessary to reduce children's excessive consumption of 'free sugars' and limit their exposure to unhealthy foods.

Home / Business and Economy / Smoothies, yogurts face UK 'junk food' reclassification

Smoothies, yogurts face UK 'junk food' reclassification

3 Feb

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Summary

Labour plans to redefine smoothies and yogurts as junk food.
Industry fears price hikes and shopper confusion from new rules.
New model revises 'free sugars' definition, affecting many foods.

Smoothies, yogurts face UK 'junk food' reclassification

The Labour party is planning to update the nutrient profiling model, potentially classifying popular items like smoothies and yogurts as 'junk food.' Health Secretary Wes Streeting has revived a proposal to revise how foods are scored for fat, salt, and sugar content.

Industry representatives express significant concern, suggesting this reclassification could lead to higher prices and confuse shoppers. The new model focuses on 'free sugars,' which can include naturally occurring sugars in fruit juice and smoothies, making it difficult for producers to accurately label products.

Ministers argue this measure is crucial to reduce children's exposure to unhealthy foods, as they consume excessive amounts of free sugars. However, businesses that have invested heavily in reformulating products to meet current standards now face uncertainty about shifting regulations.