Scottish Government considers mandatory calorie labelling at pubs and restaurants

dailyrecord.co.uk:

The Scottish Government is considering mandatory calorie labelling in restaurants and pubs across Scotland. Officials are in the process of seeking views from Scots on the policy, which has been described as a ‘key proposal’ in the government’s Out of Home Action Plan.

The policy could see calorie information signposted next to food items on menus, apps and on notices at buffets. Calorie labelling would apply to all outlets selling food, including cafes, restaurants, takeaway outlets, pubs, hotels and vending machines, under the government proposals.

Obesity and poor diets have been described by the Scottish Government as a ‘national health emergency’. Data published from the 2019 Scottish Health Survey found that 66 per cent of the population have a body mass index (BMI) over 25 - which is considered overweight by the World Health Organisation.It is hoped that the policy will reduce diet related health inequalities and will make it easier for consumers to purchase healthier meals when they’re out for dinner or ordering takeaways.Scots are being asked to give their views on the proposal - from the way this information should be presented to how it could be enforced.Did you know you can keep up to date with the latest news by signing up to our daily newsletter?We send a morning and lunchtime newsletter covering the latest headlines every day.We also send coronavirus updates at 5pm on weekdays, and a round up of the week's must-read stories on Sunday afternoons.Signing up is simple, easy and free.You can pop your email address into the sign up box above, hit Subscribe and we'll do the rest.Alternatively, you can sign up and check out the rest of our newsletters here.Health and Sport Minister Maree Todd said: “We face