Steps FSS taken to ban sugar and processed foods

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What steps have been taken to ban sugar and processed foods?

Food Standards Scotland (FSS) has a statutory responsibility to improve the extent to which members of the public have diets which are conducive to good health. However, the Scottish Government holds the legislative authority to implement mandatory changes related to diet policy. Additionally, that many of the policy levers required to drive dietary improvements are reserved to the UK Government. This division of responsibilities is outlined in the FSS Board paper ‘Reserved actions to support a healthier and more sustainable food environment’.

Recently, the UK Government consulted on proposals to expand the Soft Drinks Industry Levy (SDIL). The SDIL is designed to encourage manufacturers and importers of sugary soft drinks to reduce added sugar and promote lower-sugar alternatives. The consultation considered lowering the minimum sugar threshold at which the levy applies and removing exemptions for milk-based drinks and milk substitutes that contain added sugars. FSS responded in support of these proposals and is currently awaiting the UK Government’s decision on the outcome of the consultation.

In relation to processed foods, FSS has published an organisational position statement and consumer advice that outlines the current evidence base. The statement recognises the essential role of food processing in maintaining safety and standards, while also acknowledging limitations in the evidence linking processed foods to health outcomes. In contrast, there is strong and consistent evidence that diets high in calories, saturated fats, sugars, and salt significantly increase the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and various cancers.

The Eatwell Guide is the primary consumer-facing resource for promoting healthy diets across Scotland and the wider UK. It is underpinned by robust evidence from the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN). FSS advises consumers to adopt a healthier and more environmentally sustainable diet, as illustrated by the Eatwell Guide. Given that many ultra[1]processed foods are also high in fat, sugar, and salt, following the Eatwell Guide will naturally lead to a reduction in the consumption of these foods.