Category: Uk food policy

In late 2024, the UK government announced new regulations that would ban advertising for foods high in fat, salt, or sugar (HFSS), surprisingly including certain porridge products. This has sparked confusion, as many people consider porridge to be a healthy breakfast, begging the question: why is porridge considered junk food in the UK?. The answer lies not in the pure, unprocessed oats themselves, but in the specific, often heavily processed instant and flavoured varieties that contain excessive additives.

According to a 2024 analysis, the cost of Britain's unhealthy food system amounts to a staggering £268 billion each year, creating a considerable economic and social burden of food related ill health in the UK. This multifaceted issue affects individuals, the NHS, and wider society.

Government statistics reveal that over a third of children in England are overweight or obese by the time they leave primary school. To combat this public health crisis, the UK government has defined specific criteria for **what is classed as junk food in the UK**, officially known as High in Fat, Salt, or Sugar (HFSS) foods.

According to UK law, only non-wholemeal wheat flour must be mandatorily fortified with specific nutrients. This means that the common assumption that all flour in the UK is fortified is incorrect, as several important exceptions exist.

Despite public concern, no commercially grown genetically modified (GM) fruits are currently cultivated within the UK. The question, 'Are fruits in the UK genetically modified?' involves understanding strict regulations, sourcing, and the distinction from newer gene-editing technology.