HFSS - HOW DOES THIS EFFECT MY BUSINESS?
What is HFSS and Why Does it Impact on My Food Business?
Everything you wanted to know about HFSS…
WHAT IS HFSS?
The HFSS (High Fat, Salt & Sugar) legislation aims to address the public health crisis related to obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related diseases.
KEY DATES
October 2022 (Location Ban)
· A restriction of HFSS products by location (i.e. in prominent store locations) came into force from October 2022.
· Retailers were banned from putting HFSS products within 2 metres of a checkout area, a designated queuing area, in the end of aisle display or at the entrance of the store.
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January 2025 (Advertising Ban)
· Having been delayed from a January 2023 deadline, the ban on advertising HFSS foods online and on TV before 9pm, is set to come into force in January 2025
· Having been delayed from a January 2023 deadline.
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October 2025 (Promotion Ban)
· A ban on HFSS promotions e.g. multi-buy offers / BOGOFs is due to come into effect from October 2025
· This has been delayed by 2 years as was due to come into effect in October 2023
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PRODUCTS IN SCOPE
The following products, sold in a retail environment, are covered by the HFSS rules;
• Soft drinks with added sugars
• Crisps and savoury snacks
• Breakfast cereals
• Confectionary
• Ice creams & ice lollies
• Cakes
• Biscuits
· Breakfast bakery
· Desserts & puddings
· Yoghurt
· Pizza
· Potato-based products
· Ready Meals
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WHAT'S NOT IN SCOPE
· The out of home sector, even if they sell prepacked HFSS food and drink
· Businesses with under 50 employees
· Schools, colleges that provide education to children aged under 18
· Care homes & social care settings that serve food solely to residents
· Military establishments
· Food that is provided by a charity
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The HFSS rules apply to those manufactured products such as pizza, ready meals and sandwiches which are sold in retail, but HFSS doesn’t necessarily apply to out of home environments.
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IF HSS RULES DON'T APPLY TO OOH, WHY SHOULD THE UK FOODSERVICE SECTOR BE CONCERNED ABOUT COMPLIANCE TO THEM?
We believe that there are a number of compelling reasons why the HFSS (High in Fat, Sugar, and Salt) legislation holds significant relevance for UK foodservice operators, especially for the key OOH brands, for the following reasons;
HEALTH IMPACT & RESPONSIBILITY
OOH establishments are popular destinations, and their food offerings play a crucial role in shaping consumers' dietary habits. By adhering to the legislation, OOH brands demonstrate their commitment to healthier food choices and take ethical responsibility for the impact of their offerings on customers' well-being.
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PROMOTION & MARKETING PRACTISES
The legislation restricts promotions of HFSS products, including volume-based discounts and location-based marketing. OOH operators often use promotions to attract customers. By complying with the regulations, they contribute to a healthier food environment.
- Ethically, brands should prioritise promoting nutrient-rich options, such as protein, over less healthy ones.
TRANSPARENCY & CONSUMER TRUST
Ethical behaviour involves transparency. Clearly labelling HFSS items, allows consumers to make informed choices.
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By doing so, brands build trust with their customers, who appreciate honesty about nutritional content.
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CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY CSR
CSR extends beyond profit-making. It encompasses social and environmental impact. OOH brands can demonstrate their commitment to doing the right thing by aligning with public health goals.
CSR initiatives can include menu reformulation, offering healthier alternatives, and supporting community health programs.
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LONG TERM VIABILITY
Ethical practices contribute to a brand's long-term success.
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As consumers become more health-conscious, foodservice brands that prioritise nutritious options will thrive, conversely brands that ignore health concerns risk losing customer loyalty and facing reputational damage.
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IN
SUMMARY...
In summary, the HFSS legislation provides an opportunity for the foodservice sector to be ethical stewards of public health, promote better food choices, and build trust with their patrons. By doing so, they contribute to a healthier society while ensuring their own sustainability.
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EATLEAN INGREDIENTS
The Eatlean Ingredients range allow operators in both food manufacturing and foodservice reduce sat fat and calories in those cheese-loaded comfort foods we all love, like pizza, mac & cheese, Lasagne, Cheese pasties, toasties, in fact anything where cheese is a hero product.
Eatlean; putting cheese back on your menu!