Multi-buy confectionary specials face ban in fresh obesity crackdown
Scottish retailers are facing a fresh crackdown on the sale of fizzy drinks and confectionary with a ban on multi-buy promotions of high sugar snacks.
Following hot on the heels of a decision by NHS England to impose a 20 per cent ‘sugar tax’ the measure is the latest to be geared toward weaning people off sugar and dent a growing obesity epidemic.
A survey conducted by The Times found that some stores were flogging five bags of sweets for as little as £1 whilst chocolate bars were being sold at four for a pound whilst an 18-pack of fizzy juice can be bought for a fiver – equating to just 28p per can.
Maureen Watt, the minister for public health, said: “We are continuing to work closely with retailers, including major supermarket chains, to encourage them to offer healthier choices. Part of this work includes encouraging them to shift the balance of their promotions towards healthier options.”
The Scottish government confirmed it was currently examining the impact of such promotions and was investigating what actions it might take to limit them.