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.

The Food and Drink Federation highlighted that companies are reconsidering investments in healthier product lines due to potential advertising bans. They advocate for allowing current rules on advertising and multi-buys to take effect before further changes are implemented.

This initiative follows previous efforts to restrict high-fat, salt, and sugar (HFSS) foods through advertising bans and promotion limitations. The government maintains the model will undergo consultation and aims to align with public health goals to reduce sugar consumption in children.