Food Standards Agency should do more in the fight against ultra-processed foods | Ultra-processed foods

Felicity Lawrence’s alarming piece on ultra-processed foods (Why are ultra-processed food firms panicking and suing? Because they know time is running out, 7 August) made no mention of the UK’s Food Standards Agency, whose primary statutory objective is to protect public health from risks arising from the consumption of food.

The FSA is an independent, non-ministerial government department. Its advice to ministers, and guidance to consumers, is informed by the most up-to-date scientific evidence, free of political or commercial considerations.

As Lawrence pointed out, food manufacturers see government action as a threat. And regulation is surely the most effective way to control profit-oriented companies, many of which pay little regard to the possible negative impact of their products until compelled to do so.

The FSA last published guidance to consumers on ultra-processed foods in February 2025. Given that “the science on harm caused by foods high in fat, salt and sugar is now settled”, it is perhaps time for it to consider updating this guidance and also whether to recommend government intervention.
Mike Pender
Cardiff