The Department of Health and Social Care has confirmed that mandatory calorie labelling will be introduced for large businesses in the out-of-home food and drink sector.  

DHSC have responded to its consultation on requiring businesses in the out-of-home sector (any outlet where food and drink is prepared for immediate consumption by the person who buys it) to include mandatory calorie labelling, announcing that the measures will be introduced for businesses with more than 250 employees.

In its response to the consultation, DHSC states that it is committed to reviewing the policy to consider extending it to small and microbusinesses within five years of its’ initial implementation. In the meantime, smaller businesses are encouraged to voluntarily calorie label.

ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “The convenience sector has a role to play in increasing access to healthy foods and we will continue to engage with members about how they can increase and promote healthier ranges in store. We welcome the exemption for small businesses, which will ensure that they are not disproportionately affected by the mandatory calorie labelling requirements. We will continue to work with the Department of Health and Social Care on the detail of the proposals.”

ACS responded to the Government’s consultation on calorie labelling in 2018, urging the Government to ensure that the introduction of mandatory labelling does not place significant burdens on convenience retailers when preparing food on site.

ACS is encouraging more retailers to take part in the Healthy Start scheme, accepting vouchers for healthy products. Around one in three convenience stores currently accept Healthy Start vouchers.

The full consultation response from DHSC is available here: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/903714/Calorie_Labelling_-_Consultation_Response.pdf