The Senedd has passed new rules aimed at curbing obesity in Wales by restricting sales of high-fat, high-sugar and high-salt foods. Set to be enforceable within a year, the regulations encompass a wide variety of items such as yoghurts, cereals, pizzas, and chocolate confectionary.

According to the incoming Food (Promotion and Presentation) (Wales) Regulations 2025, shops will be prohibited from placing unhealthy foodstuffs within two metres of checkouts or queue areas, addressing impulse purchase tendencies.

Further, promotions like "buy one, get one free" or "three for two" will see curtailment on these items. In another significant move, the regulations will ban free drink refills on sugar-sweetened beverages at restaurants and takeaways, reports WalesOnline.

The intention behind the measures is to encourage healthier choices and make nutritious food more accessible and visible. Research indicates that up to 83% of purchases made on promotion are impulse buys and almost half (43%) of food and drink products in prominent store locations promote sugary foods and drinks.

The Welsh Government hopes these changes will lead to healthier eating habits and help reduce obesity levels, particularly among children.

Here's the full list of foods and drinks that will be subject to restriction:

  • Soft drinks

  • Chocolate confectionery

  • Sugar confectionery

  • Cakes

  • Ice cream

  • Morning goods (pastries)

  • Puddings and dairy desserts

  • Sweet biscuits

  • Breakfast cereals

  • Yogurts

  • Milk based drinks with added sugar

  • Juice based drinks with added sugar

  • Pizza

  • Crisps and savoury snacks

  • Ready meals and meal centres (e.g. burgers, chicken nuggets, breaded chicken/fish)

  • Chips and potato products

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