Adobe StockMinisters have hailed new restrictions on food sales which they say are an “important step” in helping people make healthier choices.
Following the passing of regulations in Parliament last year, the restrictions introduced on Friday make changes to the sale and placement of foods high in fat, sugar and salt in shops.
Businesses with more than 50 employees are no longer allowed to display pre-packaged foods like sugary soft drinks, confectionary, biscuits and breakfast cereals in prominent locations, such as at entrances, checkouts and at aisle ends.
Certain price promotions including free refills of sugary soft drinks will also be restricted.
Public health minister Maree Todd said: “From today, shoppers across Scotland will start to see healthier options given more prominence in our shops, as these new regulations take effect.
“This is an important step in helping people make healthier choices, not by restricting what’s available, but by changing how it’s presented, so the healthier option is an easier choice to make.
“I want to thank retailers for the work they’ve done to prepare for today, and I’d encourage shoppers to keep an eye out for the changes in their local shop.
“Over time, we want this to make a genuine difference to the nation’s health, helping create a Scotland where everyone can eat well, achieve a healthy weight, and enjoy better health and wellbeing.”
The regulations will apply both in-store and online and aim to create a healthier balance of products on offer to lower levels of obesity.
Similar restrictions are already in place across England and Wales.
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