The letter, submitted today (20 August), calls on the First Minister to commit to legislation to regulate multi-buy price promotions of food and drink high in fat, sugar and salt in Scotland in this autumn’s Programme for Government.
The letter says that ‘urgent action is needed’ and this would be a ‘vital step in creating a Scotland where everyone can enjoy a healthy weight’. It continues: ‘We are bombarded by promotions on food and drink products that contain excessive amounts of calories, fat, sugar and salt. Multi-buy, temporary price reductions and extra free promotions all alter price perceptions and encourage people to buy a greater number of unhealthy products. Displays at checkouts prompt further impulse buys.’
Theresa Fyffe, RCN Scotland Director, said: “Nurses are at the frontline of dealing with the effects of obesity; in clinical settings, in care homes, in the community. It’s a serious issue with complex causes and one that can cause real problems for people. If we aspire to be a population that makes healthy choices, as a society we have to do everything we can to help make that happen. Scottish Government action to restrict price promotions pushing foods high in sugars and fats is one key step that we can and should take - and which the RCN would warmly welcome.”
