Experts believe that through collaborative efforts between the government and the food industry, this initiative could lead to a significant reduction in obesity rates, potentially by a fifth.

The UK Government is launching a comprehensive 'healthy food standard' aimed at supermarkets and food manufacturers to combat rising obesity rates as part of a decade-long strategy.

Obesity rates in the UK have doubled since the 1990s, with alarming statistics showing that over one in five children are classified as obese by the end of primary school.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has highlighted the severe health implications of obesity, which costs the NHS approximately £11.4 billion annually, and emphasized that even small dietary changes can lead to significant public health improvements.

Experts and industry leaders have expressed strong support for this initiative, noting its potential to significantly enhance public health and reduce obesity-related diseases.

Under the new standard, large food businesses will be required to implement health targets while maintaining flexibility in how they achieve these goals, such as reformulating recipes or promoting healthier items.

Supermarkets will be mandated to report their sales data on healthy food items, with potential fines for those who fail to meet the established targets.

The mandatory reporting requirement is set to be implemented by the end of the current parliamentary term in 2029, with the aim of achieving the healthy food standard thereafter.

Experts argue that this new policy shifts the responsibility for healthier food choices from individuals to the entire food system, promoting better health outcomes.

Chief executives from major supermarkets, including Tesco and Sainsbury's, have voiced their support for the initiative, viewing it as a crucial step towards fostering healthier eating habits.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to address health inequalities and maternal mortality gaps in marginalized communities, aiming to create a healthier future for all.

Nesta's analysis of supermarket transactions indicates that the average health score of shopping baskets is currently 67 out of 100, with a goal to raise this score to 69, potentially reducing obesity by about 20% over three years.