26 March 2026
New rules to help people make healthier food choices come into force on 26 March 2026, marking a significant milestone in the fight against obesity.
Levels of obesity are rising in Wales, 60% of adults are overweight or obese, and nearly a quarter of children are overweight or obese by the time they start school.
Our food environment has developed in a way which makes it harder to make healthier choices, with easy, quick foods, that are often higher in fat, sugar and salt, prioritised over healthier options.
The Regulations put new responsibilities on medium and large retailers to help people to make healthier choices when shopping and eating out.
The Regulations will prevent retailers from steering customers towards less healthy products through promotions, such as multibuy offers, and by placing foods high in fat, salt and sugar at entrances and checkouts.
Research suggests that promotional offers and the placement of products in prominent locations in store and online have a significant influence on our food choices and encourage us to buy and consume more than we intended.
In the 12 months since the Food (Promotion and Presentation) (Wales) Regulations 2025 were approved by the Senedd, the Welsh Government has published comprehensive guidance to support businesses and local authorities implementing the changes, which mirror similar measures already in place in England.
(Source: Welsh Government)
Business Companion guidance on the Regulations will be published soon. Information on the existing legislation for England can be found in 'High fat, sugar or salt ('less healthy') foods'. Legislation for Scotland is due to come into force in October.