A 2025 government report found that 64.5% of adults over the age of 18 were overweight or living with obesity, continuing an upward trend from previous years. The report also finds that obesity is highest in the more deprived areas in the UK. A 2017 government report, ‘Childhood obesity: a plan for action’, which finds that over 60% of children in the UK are also overweight or obese, sets out a long-term goal to tackle this whilst considering economic pressures on consumers. Whilst many brands have made significant progress by making healthier options available and gradual reformulation via a “health by stealth” approach, there is still plenty to do. As lifestyles change, eating outside the home is becoming a more regular part of many people’s lives, increasing the need for out-of-home brands to encourage more balanced choices and support public health. How can the sector evolve to meet shifting demands and expectations, while still delivering their commercial objectives, safeguarding jobs and contributing positively to the UK economy?

This event will:

• Examine the solutions for tackling obesity that can result from collaboration of industry and government.
• Explore how to increase the accessibility of healthier choices for those with varying economic pressures.
• Consider how industry can encourage consumers to opt for nutritious food, not just the easier, less healthy options.