Almost half of UK retailers aren’t prepared for HFSS legislation, new research from GS1 UK reveals

Nearly half of UK retailers are not prepared for the high fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) legislation that will come into effect on 1st October 2022, new research from GS1 UK has revealed.

The research also found that just 1 in 3 businesses have assessed their products ahead of the deadline, and 20% are unaware of the new legislation altogether.

The HFSS legislation, which seeks to curb Britain’s obesity crisis, will affect the entire food sector – including fine food retailers such as delis, farm shops and food halls.

Commenting on the findings, GS1 UK CEO Adrian Gunn said: “The HFSS legislation represents a seismic shift for businesses across the UK, and many of our 57,000 members will be affected. Whilst our research reveals that businesses and consumers are aligned on the benefits the changes can bring, the findings show there is much more to be done if the sentiment of the legislation is to become a reality.

“Many businesses feel overwhelmed with the challenges they have faced over the last two years, but there is no doubt that the industry, now more than ever, needs to take a standardised approach for the collection of quality data if they are to adapt quickly and confidently to new legislation and growing consumer demand.”