A survey of supermarket promotional deals finds more than half of confectionery on offer, compared with only around a third of fresh fruit and vegetables
Consumer watchdog Which? analysed the promotions run by the major supermarkets between April and June this year. Of the 77,165 promotions where nutritional data was available, Which? found that over half (53%) were on less healthy foods compared to healthier products (47%).
When comparing different food groups, more than half of confectionery was on promotional offer, compared to only around a third of fresh fruit and vegetables. Seven in ten soft drinks that would fall into the higher-sugar category (more than 8% sugar) of the Government's proposed sugar tax were also on promotion.
In a separate survey, Which? found a third of people said they find it difficult to eat healthily as they think healthier food is more expensive than less healthy food. This was the top reason given for not eating more healthily. Half said supermarkets should include more healthy choices in promotions, to make it easier for people to choose healthier food.
Sustain member Which? is now calling for retailers to include more healthy options in their price promotions.
When comparing different food groups, more than half of confectionery was on promotional offer, compared to only around a third of fresh fruit and vegetables. Seven in ten soft drinks that would fall into the higher-sugar category (more than 8% sugar) of the Government's proposed sugar tax were also on promotion.
In a separate survey, Which? found a third of people said they find it difficult to eat healthily as they think healthier food is more expensive than less healthy food. This was the top reason given for not eating more healthily. Half said supermarkets should include more healthy choices in promotions, to make it easier for people to choose healthier food.
Sustain member Which? is now calling for retailers to include more healthy options in their price promotions.
Published Friday 5 August 2016
Sustain: Sustain The alliance for better food and farming advocates food and agriculture policies and practices that enhance the health and welfare of people and animals, improve the working and living environment, enrich society and culture and promote equity.
