Pubs leading the fight against obesity

Pubs are responding to concerns about obesity in the UK according to food suppliers.

Purchasing service Beacon, which has links with the top pub food suppliers, said it has seen buying habits in the industry change dramatically in response to changing consumer demand and increased awareness of the benefits of healthy eating.

According to Beacon, pubs' demand for fresh fruit and vegetables has risen by nearly 23 per cent while sales of crisps and snacks are down by a third. Fish sales are also on the increase - up by 13 per cent.

"The food industry has a very important part to play in helping to improve the nation's diet," said director of Beacon Karen Packham.

"We have a social responsibility to place more importance on offering healthy choices and the indications are that operators are already taking up this challenge."

Suppliers such as Brakes and Woodward have seen demand for healthier options increase. Brakes has developed a range of healthier products featuring reduced-fat sausages and burgers and low-fat and low-salt pizzas. They also offer customers a free nutrition service.

Food operators can offer healthy choices along with plenty of vegetables and fruit-based desserts," said Brakes nutritionist Kay Bradshaw.

"In addition they can ensure they provide clear labelling and signposting on products and menus to help customers make informed choices."

Phil Marshall from Woodward Foodservice added: "Many customers are becoming more food-aware and are looking for low-fat, low-calorie options when the focus at one time may just have been on tasty meals regardless of their healthy eating value.

"It is therefore vital that we in the industry respond to the needs of our customers and give them then options they are looking for - not only to help improve the health of the nation but also because it makes sound commercial sense to keep customers happy."