Agenda item

Report of the Director of Markets & Consumer Protection.

Members received a report of the Director of Markets & Consumer Protection providing an update detailing the delivery of an action area pledge the City of London Corporation made when they signed the Local Government Declaration on Sugar Reduction and Healthier Food.

Members were informed that this was a London-wide scheme in 24 Local Authorities. To date, eight businesses had signed up in the City including to small food chains. It was noted that larger chains were subject to more scrutiny and the City were trying to enforce criteria.

The City Corporation have developed 33 ambitious criteria for the City including the Corporation’s sustainability goals, a strategy for waste reduction and Safety Thirst considerations. Businesses must achieve a minimum of 20 criteria to be part of the scheme.   

An Officer highlighted the increasing culture and reliance on fast food/takeaways, particularly with workers, which was issue in the City. It was hoped that the scheme with businesses and public health messaging would improve this concern.

A Member noted that food left at the end of the day and sold cheaply/given to charity should not be regarded as waste. Officers confirmed that this was not waste, and the food would be stored at the adequate temperature and distributed with a delivery note for consumption that day for safety.  

In response to queries regarding schemes in other boroughs to donate food to school breakfast clubs, recycling and the lack of compostable waste bins in the City, Officers agreed to follow up with relevant individuals and departments on these matters.

The Chairman suggested adding the health and cleanliness ratings of businesses to the City Corporation’s website and for businesses to have a sticker on the door to identify them to members of the public. It was also recommended that this be featured in the Healthy Business Magazine.

RECEIVED.