Billion meals a year eaten in pubs
More than 1bn meals a year are eaten in pubs, accounting for more than a quarter of meals eaten out of home.
The figure, based on research by market analyst Mintel and Horizons FS, forms part of a new report which will help to shape government food policy over the coming years.
With almost 5bn meals a year eaten out of home the report, produced by the Cabinet Office Strategy Unit, says "pub catering accounts for nearly a quarter of the eating out market - the sector has rejuvenated over the last 10 years with more pubs experimenting with restaurant services."
The study also highlights official concerns about eating habits, particularly among poorer families, which is likely to raise fresh fears that the government will consider regulating pub menus as part of a crackdown on food perceived as 'unhealthy'. The study says:
- People are eating fewer fruit and vegetables and less oily fish than recommended
- Children's diets in the UK are proportionally higher in sugars and saturated fat than adult diets
- There is 'some evidence' that intakes of vitamins and minerals are lower than is good for health.
The report also confirms that food prices can be expected to continue to rise as higher costs, rising demand and poor harvests hit production.
Prime Minister Gordon Brown asked the unit to produce the report on Britain's food industry and eating habits last Autumn. The report but will "inform long-term policy development".
The Cabinet Office has invited "comments and contributions", with a further study due to be published later this year. To access the full report use the link on the right.
