Overview

• The new rules take effect today across supermarkets, larger high-street retailers and online sellers in England.
• Restaurants and cafes can no longer offer free refills of sugary soft drinks under the regulations.
• Products are defined by the government’s nutrient-based model, covering items such as chocolate, crisps, cakes, ice creams, some pizzas and fish fingers, and sugary drinks.
• A further phase is scheduled from January with a full online advertising ban for less healthy food and drink and restrictions on TV advertising before the 9pm watershed.
• The British Retail Consortium says most major members are already compliant, with chains including Tesco and Sainsbury’s having introduced curbs ahead of the start date.