Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the effectiveness of the Calorie Labelling (Out of Home Sector) (England) Regulations 2021 in changing eating habits and tackling obesity, and what scientific evidence they have considered in making this assessment, including any scientific studies which suggest that mandatory calorie labelling policies are ineffective.

Legislation requiring large businesses in England, namely those with 250 or more employees, to display calorie information on non-prepacked food and soft drinks came into force in 2022. It aims to support consumers to make healthier choices for themselves and their families when eating out or getting a takeaway, with clear information about calorie content of potential purchases. It may also encourage businesses to reformulate and provide lower calorie options, helping to create a healthier food environment.

The published impact assessment, which included a summary of the evidence, estimated that by lowering calorie consumption amongst people living with overweight or obesity, the policy would produce savings to the National Health Service of £430 million and social care savings of £477 million over 25 years.

We continue to evaluate the impact of the Out of Home Calorie Labelling Regulations and have commissioned studies through the National Institute for Health and Care Research which includes an evaluation to understand the impact of the rules, including on people living with eating disorders.

We will publish a post-implementation review within five years of implementation which will consider the effectiveness of the policy and will include a review of relevant scientific studies.