Senedd to restrict promotions and display of unhealthy food in shops
The new rules, designed to combat obesity, will limit the promotion and placement of foods high in fat, salt, and sugar in larger shops and online retail spaces across Wales.
Last updated 26th Mar 2025
Y Senedd yn pleidleisio dros reolau newydd ynghylch hyrwyddo bwyd sy'n gysylltiedig â gordewdra.
The Senedd has passed new regulations aimed at curbing the promotion of unhealthy food and drink products in shops and online, as part of efforts to address the growing obesity problem in Wales.
The Food (Promotion and Presentation) (Wales) Regulations 2025 will restrict certain types of promotions, such as multi-buy offers and free refills of sugary drinks, which can encourage over-consumption. The rules will also limit the placement of high-fat, high-sugar, and high-salt products in prime selling locations, including store entrances, checkouts, and homepages of websites.
These regulations, which align with similar rules already in place in England, will apply to medium and large businesses with 50 or more employees.
Research has shown that up to 83% of purchases made on promotion are impulse buys, with nearly half of the products displayed in prominent locations promoting sugary foods and drinks. The Welsh government hopes that restricting these types of promotions will make it easier for people to make healthier choices.
Health Secretary Jeremy Miles welcomed the vote, stating, “These regulations are a key part of our strategy to tackle Wales’ growing obesity problem. I’m pleased they have been approved by the Senedd, as they will have a significant impact on the health of our nation for years to come."
He added, “We want to make it easier for people to make healthier choices and we’ll achieve this by improving the food environment around them. If we ensure healthier food and drinks are more available, accessible and visible to people in shops and stores, it will support our efforts to reduce obesity rates and improve public health.”