British Nutrition Foundation response to the NPM 2018 consultation
The British Nutrition Foundation supports the application of the updated Nutrient Profiling Model (NPM 2018) to advertising and promotion restrictions in principle, as part of a broader, system‑wide approach to improving population health.
Overall, we agree that strengthening restrictions on the promotion of less healthy foods can help shape healthier food environments, support better dietary choices, and contribute to tackling childhood obesity. The updated model more closely reflects current scientific evidence and SACN recommendations, especially around free sugars and fibre.
However, the public health impact of NPM 2018 will depend on how effectively it is implemented, monitored and enforced, and how industry responds. There is a need to carefully manage potential unintended consequences.
We highlight the importance of clear, consistent and practical technical guidance, particularly for calculating free sugars, alongside robust tools, training and governance to support businesses and enforcement authorities.
We also emphasise the need for a phased and well‑supported implementation approach, aligned with wider public health policies, to ensure effectiveness and avoid diverting resources from other key interventions.
Finally, we note that those following vegan diets may be disproportionately affected if fortified plant‑based products are restricted despite their role in supporting nutrient intake.
In summary, we support the intent and direction of NPM 2018, but its success will depend on clear guidance, consistent application, and careful consideration of nutritional and practical impacts across the food system.
Read our response to the consultation in full
About the British Nutrition Foundation
Connecting people, food and science for better nutrition and healthier lives
The British Nutrition Foundation is a charity that strives to prevent diet-related illness and promote health and wellbeing through evidence-based nutrition science. It provides a bridge between nutrition science, government, industry, healthcare, education and people, and is a conduit to a healthier, more sustainable food environment for all.
The British Nutrition Foundation’s team is made up of highly qualified and experienced nutrition scientists and educators who work to disseminate evidence-based peer reviewed research findings which: support industry strategy and healthy, sustainable product innovation; inform government policy and regulations; and help people build their knowledge, skills and confidence in making positive, food and lifestyle choices to help prevent illness and disease and promote health and wellbeing.
We safeguard our independence through robust governance, with an independent Board supported by an Advisory Committee and a Scientific Committee, both of which draw upon a broad range of experts from academia, government, industry, and public life. Our governance is weighted towards the scientific community, universities, and research institutes, and those from education, finance, media, communications, and HR backgrounds.
Funding for the British Nutrition Foundation is from membership subscriptions; donations; project grants from food producers and manufacturers, retailers and food service companies; conferences; publications, training, trusts, and foundations. The British Nutrition Foundation is not a lobbying organisation, nor does it endorse any products or engage in food advertising campaigns.
More details about the British Nutrition Foundation’s work, funding and governance can be found here.
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Article by British Nutrition Foundation