Saturated fat and energy intake programme

In February 2008, the Agency published its saturated fat and energy intake programme, which outlines the actions needed to help consumers reduce saturated fat intakes and balance the amount of calories they consume with their needs.

The programme identifies four areas for action:

• improving consumer awareness and understanding of healthy eating with particular focus on the impact of saturated fat on health
• encouraging promotion and uptake of healthier options
• encouraging accessibility of smaller food portion sizes
• encouraging voluntary reformulation of mainstream products to reduce saturated fat and energy

In February 2009, the Agency launched its campaign to raise consumer awareness about saturated fat and provide tips or solutions to help consumers reduce their intakes. The second phase of the campaign was run in January and February 2010.

The Agency is also working with food businesses to take forward the remaining three areas for action on healthier options, food portion sizes and reformulation.

Voluntary recommendations to industry on saturated fat and added sugar reducations and portion size availability are being published during 2010.