New rules limiting how foods high in fat, sugar and salt are sold in Scotland came into force on 1 October 2026, according to the Scottish Government. The regulations were passed by the Scottish Parliament last year.
What changes in shops
Businesses with more than 50 employees can no longer display prepackaged products such as sugary soft drinks, confectionery, biscuits and breakfast cereals in prominent spots, including shop entrances, checkouts and the ends of aisles. Some price promotions are also restricted, including free refills of sugary soft drinks. The government says the rules apply both in shops and online.
Why ministers say it matters
Public Health Minister Maree Todd said two in three adults in Scotland are overweight or obese, and that people in the poorest areas are more likely to experience the most harm. She argued that prominent placement and promotions encourage impulse buying of high-calorie foods, and said the approach had been developed with extensive industry engagement to limit the impact on smaller businesses.
Bringing Scotland into line
The government notes that similar restrictions already apply in England and Wales. Smaller shops with 50 or fewer employees fall outside the placement rules. The linked announcement sets out the full detail.
