Calorie count to be put on menus in cafes, restaurants and takeaways
It's part of the Government's plans to tackle obesity
Last updated 24th May 2022
The Government has unveiled plans to display calorie information on food menus in restaurants, cafes and takeaways from 2022.
The initiative, which aims to "help the public to make healthier choices when eating out", will require businesses in England with over 250 employees to provide calorie information on food menus.
The plans have previously proved controversial, with a petition launched last year entitled "Stop the plan to include calorie counts on menus" receiving over 18,000 signatures.
The Government responded to the petition by stating that although they recognised "concerns about calorie labelling", it was "right" that its policy "focuses on improving diet and reducing obesity."
Meanwhile, eating disorder charity Beat has said it is "extremely disappointed" in the Government's decision to go ahead with an initiative which could be "dangerous" to people with eating disorders.
Posting on Twitter, Beat said: "We are extremely disappointed that the Govt has continued with these plans, despite clear evidence it is ineffective and dangerous to people affected by eating disorders.
"We urge parliamentarians to protect people with EDs and oppose this legislation."
The charity added: "Calorie labelling on menus is ineffective, and dangerous to people affected by eating disorders.
However, Public Health Minister and Conservative MP Jo Churchill backed the move, saying: "Our aim is to make it as easy as possible for people to make healthier food choices for themselves and their families, both in restaurants and at home.
"That is why we want to make sure everyone has access to accurate information about the food and drink we order.
"These measures form an important building block in our strategy to support and encourage people in achieving and maintaining a healthier weight."