As part of its ‘Healthy Weight: Healthy Wales’ strategy, the Welsh Government is considering adding calories on menus.
That means every time you go to restaurants, cafes or takeaways, you’ll see a calorie count for every single thing you eat or drink. From starter to dessert, coffee to cocktail.
Why does it matter?
There’s very little evidence that calorie-labelling helps you get healthier. But the research does show that it harms people with eating disorders.
We know because we’ve spent years campaigning against calories on menus. And despite our best efforts, similar legislation was introduced in England this April.
Sadly, we’ve already seen the negative impact.
Since April, many of our beneficiaries have reported struggling with these changes when seeking help via our services.
“If this law had come into place while I was struggling, it would have been confirmation that calories should inform all of my food choices. It would have severely damaged my recovery, and my heart aches for those who may be struggling now.”
“Calories ruled my life for 5 years, and it took me a long time to let go of counting, and realise that calories are inaccurate, have little to do with health, and don't need to rule every meal I eat.”
Together, we have taken a stand
We wrote an open letter to Lynne Neagle MS, Deputy Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing , urging her to reconsider the plans to make calorie labelling on menus the law across Wales. Nearly 700 people from Wales added their name to the letter, and stood with us against this potentially harmful legislation.
Welsh Government Response
We welcomed the Welsh Government’s decision to pause the introduction of calorie labelling on menus, until more evidence is gathered on the impact of such legislation on people with eating disorders. Should this evidence show that calorie labelling on menus causes harm, then such a policy should not be introduced.
Read our full briefing on Calorie Labelling on Menus in Wales.
Share your views and experiences of calorie labelling, to help us continue to put you and your experiences at the heart of the conversation on this.