Sainsbury’s to ban unhealthy snacks for staff amid government obesity crackdown
Why some freebies for supermarket staff are being scrapped
- Sainsbury's is replacing free crisps and biscuits in staff rooms with healthier "light meal" options such as soups, porridge and bread.
- The supermarket says this change supports the government's campaign against obesity and ensures a more consistent range of free food for employees.
- These new provisions will be implemented across all Sainsbury's outlets, Argos sites, and distribution centres.
- The initiative aligns with the Labour government's broader plans to reduce obesity levels in the UK, which currently affect over a quarter of the English population and cost the NHS an estimated 11 billion annually.
- Sainsbury's CEO, Simon Roberts, has expressed support for government proposals that could require supermarkets to reduce calories in shopping baskets, with potential fines for non-compliance.