Mandated calorie labelling “could not come at a worse time”, trade body says

A majority of chains currently do not employ such labels.

The government’s strategy to curb obesity by mandating food business that employ more than 250 persons to add calorie labels to menus are well-meaning but “could not come at a worse time”, according to trade body UKHospitality.

“A well-intentioned targeting of child obesity is at risk of evolving into an interventionist approach that heaps burdens on hospitality businesses just when they are at their most vulnerable and fighting for survival,” UKH chief executive Kate Nicholls said.

“At-risk sections of society need specific targeting but the most constructive approach with most of society is to provide effective and credible tools to allow people to make . informed decisions about their lifestyles, nutrition and exercise, from as early an age as possible.”

Nicholls added that the sector has “played its part in lockdown, feeding and accommodating vulnerable people and key workers.”

“Now, as we focus on securing jobs and helping the economy and communities to recover, a raft of costs and regulatory burdens would be a slap in the face,” she added.