A review of studies found that calorie labeling has only a modest effect on calorie intake, leading to calls for the government to reconsider its mandatory policy.
A leading body representing pubs and restaurants has urged the government to reconsider its mandatory calorie labeling policy for food businesses. They argue that the policy, which requires large cafes, restaurants, and takeaways to display calorie counts on menus and online platforms since April 2022, has had a minimal impact on consumer calorie intake.
A review of 25 studies involving over 10,000 people from countries like the UK, France, and the US, published in the Cochrane Library, found that calorie labeling led to an average reduction of only 1.8% in total calorie consumption, equivalent to a mere 11 calories in a typical 600-calorie meal. While acknowledging the modest impact, researchers suggest the cumulative effect at a population level could contribute to public health. The UKHospitality, which represents pubs and restaurants, maintains the policy has primarily increased costs for businesses, leading to thousands of pounds in additional expenses annually. They advocate for a policy review, citing the minimal impact on consumer calorie intake. The Food and Drink Federation, representing supermarkets and food producers, supports calorie labeling, stating it empowers consumers to make informed choices and select lower-calorie options. However, they emphasize that labeling alone is not a comprehensive solution to obesity. Professor Tom Sanders of King's College London questions the long-term effectiveness, arguing that a slight reduction in calorie intake is unlikely to result in significant weight loss. He suggests people need to consistently consume 200 fewer calories daily for a prolonged period to achieve weight management. Conversely, Professor Amanda Daley of Loughborough University highlights the role calorie labeling plays in promoting healthier eating habits, stating that even small reductions in calorie intake can accumulate and potentially contribute to reducing obesity within the population.
CALORIE LABELING HEALTHPOLICY NUTRITION PUBLIC HEALTH OESITY
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