Hearts for health

Food outlets in Hull and the East Riding are being urged to take part in a new health promotion scheme to help customers make healthier choices about the meals they buy.
Sandwich bars, pubs, hotels, restaurants, cafes, schools, residential homes, takeaways, work canteens and other caterers can all display a Healthier Options Award if they:

• achieve good hygiene and food safety standards on their premises
• offer lower fat alternatives on their menus
• reduce the amount of fat used in cooking
• provide more options to customers, such as using a wider range of breads for sandwiches

"This is a major new health promotion scheme for the Hull area and I strongly encourage food retailers to get involved," says Cllr Dave Woods, who has responsibility for environmental sustainability in Hull.
"Not only is it good for customers' health and wellbeing, but it's also good for business as food retailers that achieve the award can display the Healthier Options logo on their premises, and have their business promoted online, to help attract customers.
"This can improve the reputations of food outlets and enable customers to make informed choices about where and what they eat."
Applying for the award is free, quick and easy and involves a visit from a dietitian, who, after just an hour, can find out if a food outlet qualifies for the award or give guidance on what changes need to be made to achieve the award at a later date.
The scheme is run by Hull City Council in partnership with East Riding of Yorkshire Council and the NHS.

For more information, and to view a list of food outlets which have gained the award, visit www.hullcc.gov.uk or call Emma Goodman in Environmental Health on 300300.