Lidl Ireland has announced that it will reduce sugar content by 20% across its private-label product range by 2020.
It has also pledged to cut salt content in own-brand items in accordance with the UK's Food Standards Agency targets.
The move is in response to the Irish Government's Healthy Ireland initiative, and, in particular, the Obesity Action Plan.
'A Positive Contribution'
Ireland's minister for health, Simon Harris, commended Lidl Ireland for the initiative and said, "The food and retail industry can make a positive contribution to the prevention of obesity, so it is important we work in partnership to achieve a reduction in the amount of fat, salt, and sugar in foods eaten regularly by consumers."
Liam Casey, commercial director at Lidl Ireland, thanked minister Harris for his support and added, "Promoting and providing healthier food options for our customers is something we are passionate about at Lidl Ireland and we are proud to be leading the way in the Irish retail market with our significant commitments."
Focus Areas
Lidl Ireland will review approximately 350 own-brand products in order to achieve this sugar target, the company said in a statement. Breakfast cereals, spreads, sauces, and sweet confectionery will be a major focus for sugar reduction.
Salt reduction will focus on ready meals, soups, pizzas, crisps, cakes, and meat SKUs.
© 2019 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
