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HFSS: Welsh Consultation
by 55 North
ACS calls for consistency to HFSS regulations across UK
Trade body responds to Welsh Government consultation on introducing restrictions on high fat, salt and sugar products.
The Association of Convenience Stores has responded to the Welsh Government consultation on introducing restrictions on high fat, salt and sugar (HFSS) products highlighting the impact on retailers and need for a consistent regulatory approach across the UK.
The consultation looks at HFSS products in terms of placement, promotions, and defining what products are impacted. The Welsh Government’s proposals are like those being introduced in England on HFSS products, but there are some key differences:
● The Welsh Government is proposing to restrict ‘temporary price reductions’ of HFSS products and meal deals including HFSS products.
● The Welsh Government is proposing to restrict the siting of HFSS products on free-standing display units in addition to at store entrances, at the tills, and at the end of aisles.
● The Welsh Government is seeking views on how to define HFSS products, via differing nutrient profiling models.
In its submission, ACS calls for the Welsh Government to ensure that the regulations are fully aligned with those being introduced in England to ensure consistency, reduce the burden on businesses across the food supply chain and avoid confusion among retailers.
Regarding the restrictions on the placement of HFSS products, ACS has called for an exemption for small shops under 280sq m (3,000sq ft), including shops operating under a symbol group.
There are currently no set timescales for the introduction of the proposals after the consultation period.
