Big Macs and takeaway pizzas could shrink as part of government plans to tackle obesity

8 September 2020, 07:39

The new plans could affect a number of takeaways in England (stock images). Picture: Getty

A report from Public Health England urges food outlets to 'voluntarily' reduce its portion sizes by 20 per cent.

Certain fast foods in England could be reduced in size in an effort to tackle obesity in the UK.

A new report from Public Health England is urging the food industry to 'voluntarily' cut calories by 20 per cent, as reported by the Mirror.

Takeaway pizzas, Big Macs and Greggs slices could all be affected by the proposals.

Big Macs could be reduced in size by 20 per cent (stock image). Picture: Getty

Pizzas were singled out in the report, as they can contain more than the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of calories for adults.

The Big Mac, which currently contains 508 calories, would be reduced to 407 - and a portion of fish and chips, which has around 842, would be reduced to 673.

The rules would also see children's 'food bundles' be reduced by 10 per cent, and crisps, sandwiches and other savoury snacks losing 5 per cent.

Public Health Minister Jo Churchill told The Sun: "We can all do our bit to stay healthy, to help protect us from coronavirus and take pressure off the NHS.

"The food industry can play their part, by making it as easy as possible for everyone to eat more healthily. These guidelines will help them take positive action."

Pizzas were singled out in the report because of their calorie content (stock image). Picture: Getty

Dr Alison Tedstone, chief nutritionist for PHE, added: "Eating food and drink that's higher in calories than people realise is one of the reasons why many of us are either overweight or obese.

Dr Hilary on why increase in Covid-19 cases hasn't also shown a rise in deaths

"This is about broadening choice for consumers, as well as making the healthier choice the easy choice. Progress to date on sugar and salt reduction has shown that this can happen without compromising on taste and quality."

NOW READ:

Primark names four quietest UK stores since reopening in June as sales drop