Hospitals have been ordered to take super-size chocolate bars and “grab bags” of sugary snacks off of the shelves in the latest step of the NHS plan to fight obesity, diabetes and tooth-decay.
NHS England chief executive Simon Stevens has announced a 250 calorie limit on confectionary sold in hospital canteens, stores, vending machines and other outlets.
Hospital chiefs will have to ensure that four out of five items purchased on their premises do not bust the limit, which is an eighth of a woman’s and a tenth of a man’s recommended daily intake, or lose out on funding ring-fenced for improving the health of staff, patients and their visitors.
Unhealthy sandwiches and drinks are also being targeted as the NHS, Europe’s largest employer, takes a lead in tackling the availability of unhealthy food and drinks that are fuelling an obesity crisis.
Simon Stevens, NHS England’s chief executive, said: “The NHS is now stepping up action to combat the ‘super-size’ snack culture which is causing an epidemic of obesity, preventable diabetes, tooth decay, heart disease and cancer.
“In place of calorie-laden, sugary snacks we want to make healthier food an easy option for hospital staff, patients and visitors.”
Action has already been taken to remove price promotions and stop sales at checkouts on sugary drinks and foods high in fat, sugar or salt; end advertisements of these foods on NHS premises; and ensure healthy food options are available at all times, including for those people working night shifts.
