The government has announced a new cost-of-living package. In response, the Nutrition Foundation’s Head of Policy and Advocacy, Hannah Brinsden has explored whether it’s enough to ensure everyone has access to healthy, affordable food:

“There is a gap in the government’s current plans. As mentioned, the tariff relief on common basket items announced in Reeves’ speech is not specifically targeted towards healthier foods, which could be problematic when you consider healthier calories are already twice as expensive as less healthy calories.

“The VAT cut on children’s meals at restaurants and cafes in family attractions may not also support with access towards healthier foods. Interventions must go beyond business relief interventions to include more targeted support for families trying to access healthy and essential food.”