British Heart Foundation Northern Ireland has urged the introduction of new laws following the Department of Health and Food Standards Agency's consultation on price promotion legislation for unhealthy foods. The charity says curbs on discounting and where HFSS items are placed in shops should be a priority for the next Executive to help tackle obesity and reduce heart disease risk.

Policy and Public Affairs Manager for British Heart Foundation NI, Liam Duggan, said: "This consultation is welcome, but it must be the start of decisive action. The next Executive must deliver legislation to restrict price and location-based promotions of high fat, sugar and salt products (HFSS). Anything less is unacceptable. "This legislation would bring Northern Ireland in line with neighbouring jurisdictions in England, Scotland and Wales. The people of Northern Ireland deserve the same protections from an unhealthy food environment that encourages overconsumption of HFSS food and drink which is driving the obesity crisis.

"Living with overweight or obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. An estimated 1 in 8 cardiovascular disease deaths in Northern Ireland is associated with a high body mass index.

"To tackle obesity, we need a concerted, whole-system approach across all Executive Departments. Price promotion legislation is just one action and more needs to be done to deliver the promises of the Healthy Futures obesity strategy."