29 April 2015

FDF response to 'Food and the responsibility deal' analysis in the BMJ

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In response to the analysis 'Food and the responsibility deal' published today in the BMJ, Barbara Gallani, Director of Regulation, Science & Health at the Food and Drink Federation, said: “The UK has a world-leading salt reduction programme, thanks in no small part to the voluntary efforts of food producers. Voluntary action by companies over the past decade has helped to reduce adult intakes of salt by 15% and further work is on-going to help consumer meet dietary recommendations.

“It's common sense that food producers should be involved in shaping a salt reduction strategy as only a thorough understanding of ingredients and recipes can result in stretching but realistic targets. FDF and its members continue to support a voluntary approach in order to deliver more and more timely than any legislation could achieve.

“Having made great early strides to reduce salt in products, many companies are finding reductions harder to achieve without compromising product safety or jeopardising taste, texture or shelf-life. Increased funding for pre-competitive research would help companies overcome shared barriers to further salt reductions.

“Government support to upskill the UK's 6,000 small and medium sized food and drink businesses and help them to reduce salt, calories and saturates in their ranges would also deliver significant consumer benefit.”

Notes to editors

1. The Scottish Food and Drink Federation's Scottish Government (Health) pilot reformulation programme in Scotland, which ran 2011-2014, provided Scotland-based small and medium sized manufacturers with tailored, practical support to reduce salt, calories and saturates in their ranges.
2. The UK food and beverages manufacturing sector is comprised of 96.5% SMEs (Source: Business Population Estimate, 2014)

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