FDF response to the Government's health plan

FDF Spokesperson Statement:

“Food and drink manufacturers take the issue of obesity and poor diets very seriously and have made significant progress over the past decade to support healthier diets. In 2024 alone, businesses invested £180m in R&D to develop healthier products. As a result, FDF members’ products now have 31% less salt, 30% less sugar and 24% fewer calories, compared to a decade ago.

“We know that bold and coordinated action is needed to support the nation’s health and welcome the government’s plans to introduce mandatory reporting of healthier food sales across the whole food system. We look forward to working in partnership with government to build a healthier future, ensuring that there’s a stable regulatory environment to give businesses the confidence to continue investing in developing healthier options for shoppers.”

Background:

• Findings from the FDF State of Industry Survey, estimate that 50-60% of the industry’s R&D spend, or £167m – £200m, was dedicated to healthier product innovation in 2024
• The Food and Drink Federation members’ products now contribute 31% less salt, 30% less sugar and 24% fewer calories when compared to 2015. Data from Kantar’s Worldpanel for FDF member products in the GB Take Home Food & Drink market, sales weighted average nutrient changes from 2015 – 2024
• The Food and Drink Federation’s Shaping a healthier future through food and drink report: https://www.fdf.org.uk/fdf/our-work/our-campaigns/shaping-healthier-futures/