It is important for manufacturers to be mindful of the dietary status of the population, and understand the science behind recommendations.
According to the National Diet and Nutrition Survey, and Family Food Survey most people in the UK eat and drink too many calories, too much saturated fat, sugar and salt, and not enough fruit, vegetables, oily fish or fibre. See UK Dietary Recommendations.
When updating dietary guidelines, Government and policy makers rely on advice from the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN), a panel of independent scientific experts. Notable reports from SACN include those on Saturated Fat, and Carbohydrates, Vitamin D and Folic Acid.
Updates & milestones
UK chosen to lead new Sugar and Calorie Reduction Network
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has chosen the UK to lead a new Sugar and Calorie Reduction network to take global action on sugar and calorie reduction. The Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Chris Whitty, announced the formation of the network. The UK has seen good progress in sugar reduction and will be using its world-leading expertise in domestic sugar and calorie reduction to support European countries.
The new network’s member states will share learning and technical expertise to encourage manufacturers to reformulate products, reducing the amount of sugar and calories in food and drink. The WHO Sugar and Calorie Reduction Network will launch in spring 2022. Find out more
Vitamin D and COVID-19
On 17 December, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition published guidance on vitamin D and COVID-19.
The guidance re-emphasises advise from the UK Government regarding vitamin D supplementation to maintain bone and muscle health between October and March, as people do not make enough vitamin D from sunlight in these months.
It states that vitamin D supplements should not be offered to people solely to prevent or treat COVID-19, except as part of a clinical trial.
For further details please see the full report here.
5 a day guidance
It's recommended that you eat at least 5 portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables every day. They can be fresh, frozen, canned, dried or juiced.
Eatwell Guide
The Eatwell Guide shows the different types of foods and drinks we should consume – and in
what proportions – to have a healthy, balanced diet.
Receive updates on this topic
Want to keep up to date on this topic?
You can receive email updates on this topic by registering for an FDF account.
You can edit your preferences so that you receive updates on the topics and the type of information you are interested in.
Interested in becoming a member?
FDF members have access to a range of benefits to grow, protect and strengthen their business.
Gain an advantage, join FDF today.
Report: Celebrating Food and Nutrition Report 2023
This report provides a spotlight on the huge amount of work companies have already undertaken to help support consumers achieve a balanced diet.