The British Heart Foundation in Northern Ireland has called for new laws to restrict how high-fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) foods are promoted in shops. The demand follows a consultation by the Department of Health and the Food Standards Agency on price promotion legislation for unhealthy foods.

The charity says curbs on discounting and on where HFSS items are placed in stores should be a priority for the next Executive. It argues such measures are needed to help tackle obesity and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Liam Duggan, Policy and Public Affairs Manager for BHF NI, stated that the consultation marks a step forward but must lead to decisive action. He said the next Executive has a duty to deliver legislation that restricts price and location-based promotions of HFSS products.

Mr Duggan noted that introducing the legislation would bring Northern Ireland into line with other parts of the UK. He said people in Northern Ireland deserve the same protections from an unhealthy food environment that encourages overconsumption and drives the obesity crisis.

He pointed out that an estimated one in eight cardiovascular disease deaths in Northern Ireland is linked to a high body mass index. He warned that living with overweight or obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Mr Duggan stressed that tackling obesity requires a whole-system approach across all Executive Departments. He described price promotion legislation as just one action among many needed to deliver on the promises of the Healthy Futures obesity strategy.