UKHospitality has cautioned against additional regulatory burdens and expenses that could constrain the sector if rigid measures are implemented.
This warning comes after the Department of Health and Social Care unveiled its 10-year health strategy for England, detailing how it intends to restore the NHS and prepare it for future challenges.
The Government is prioritising the fight against obesity and enhancing public health, but there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to reaching this objective.
The hospitality industry is already contributing significantly to the Government’s goals, having made substantial investments and implemented meaningful changes across the sector, including menu innovation and recipe reformulation, plus expanding the availability of nutritious food options.
UKHospitality is urging the government to work collaboratively in developing measures that can deliver real, positive health outcomes while remaining commercially viable for hospitality operators.
Kate Nicholls, chair of UKHospitality, said: “We are calling for clarity and detail from Government on the new measures outlined in its 10-year health plan, such as what mandatory reporting is set to look like, and which businesses are eligible.
“The hospitality sector is up for the challenge of developing a healthier nation, and it’s undeniable we’re already doing a huge amount of work to do just that.
“We need to ensure the sector isn’t pushed into new rules that end up tainting these experiences. Therefore, working in tandem with Government across a holistic approach that spans across consumers, food businesses, the supply chain and education, is the best way to deliver the food revolution it craves. Not only will this keep the doors hospitality businesses open, but it also protects a staple of British culture.”
