Ultra-processed foods are clearly linked to human obesity and ill-health. Retail offers, like BOGOFF (buy one get one free), should consequently not include such unhealthy items. Minimally processed and nutritious foods, including fruit, vegetables and whole grains, as well as fresh meat and fish would be better candidates for money-saving offers. The UK government had planned to get retailers to make just such a switch. This would have made it more affordable for poorer families to improve their diets. Retailers will be tasked with reducing offers on fatty and salt-laden foods. Pressure from the Food and Drink Federation has, however, caused the government to ditch its ban on ultra-processed food offers (https://www.theguardian.com/society/ng-interactive/2025/may/17/uk-government-drops-healthy-eating-push-after-lobbying-by-ultra-processed-food-firms). The Food and Drink Federation is a well-funded lobby group set up by the big ultra-processed food producers. Bowing to its pressure, will have severe financial consequences for the NHS and poorer families.
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