Government Considers Food Health Model Update Amid Rising Costs

By the Editorial Team · Monday, October 19, 2026

The UK government is planning to update its food health model from the 2004 criteria to the 2018 version in an effort to better combat rising obesity rates that cost the NHS billions each year. However, industry groups warn that the changes could increase food prices and economic strain amid current inflation and living cost pressures, complicating efforts to keep healthy food affordable.

The UK government is considering an update to its food health model amid concerns over rising living costs and public health issues. The current criteria, which classify foods as “less healthy” based on nutrient profiling from 2004, are set to be revised to reflect the latest 2018 model. Officials argue that this change is necessary to better address the country’s growing obesity problem, which costs the National Health Service (NHS) approximately £9.3 billion annually and has led to a record number of overweight children.

Ministers are reviewing responses from a recent public consultation, with a final decision expected soon. A government spokesperson emphasized the need for the updated model, noting that the previous one is outdated and does not align with current dietary guidelines. The government also stressed its commitment to balancing efforts to improve public health with the need to keep food affordable amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures.

However, industry representatives have raised concerns about the potential economic impact of the proposed changes. Kate Halliwell, director of health and nutrition at the Food and Drink Federation, warned that the new model could classify many products currently considered part of a balanced diet—such as wholegrain cereals and fruit yoghurts—as less healthy. She argued this could limit companies’ ability to invest in healthier product innovations and make it harder for consumers to make simple, healthful substitutions.

Halliwell highlighted that food businesses are already grappling with significant cost increases driven by geopolitical tensions, including wars in Iran and Ukraine, extreme weather events in Europe, and rising packaging prices. An industry source described the planned update as having a “chilling effect,” potentially increasing costs and adding to consumer price pressures during a time when the government has spoken about giving breathing space to households and businesses.

The average UK household spends about £107 per week on food, a figure that has risen by 5.3 percent since July 2025. Inflation on food prices accelerated to 2.5 percent in the most recent month, with forecasts from the Food and Drink Federation projecting food and non-alcoholic drink inflation to climb to 3.9 percent by December and 6.4 percent by July next year.

Retailers have already warned of the likelihood of further price increases on essential items due to an additional £440 million in energy costs this year and a £6.5 billion rise in employment expenses over the past two years, partly attributed to increased National Insurance contributions. The British Retail Consortium has called on Chancellor John Healey ahead of the October 28 Budget to provide relief measures to ease these financial pressures on businesses. Its chief executive, Helen Dickinson, stated that such support would enable retailers to invest in maintaining stable prices and preserving jobs.

While Mr. Healey is reportedly considering regulatory relief to help businesses, significant tax reductions are viewed as unlikely. The government maintains that tackling childhood obesity remains a priority, alongside efforts to manage the cost of living so families can access healthier food choices without undue financial burden.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.