The London Borough of Bexley is encouraging local food businesses to join the Healthier Catering Commitment, a free accreditation scheme that helps operators prepare and promote healthier food.

The Healthier Catering Commitment focuses on realistic and affordable improvements that work for both the business and its customers, preserving customer choice and avoiding unnecessary cost.

Councillor Janice Ward-Wilson, Cabinet Member for Adults & Health, said:

We want to make it easier for people in Bexley to make healthier choices when eating out, while recognising the pressures local food businesses face. The Healthier Catering Commitment is a practical, free scheme that supports businesses to make small, affordable changes that can make a real difference, without compromising choice or adding unnecessary costs.

I’m pleased to see local businesses already showing an interest and I would encourage more cafés, restaurants, takeaways and other food businesses across the Borough to get involved."

Public health officers are actively working with local businesses to increase the availability of healthier options across the Borough, providing tailored recommendations and practical advice on making small changes to the way food is prepared, cooked and served.

These changes can include using less salt, sugar and saturated fat, offering smaller portion sizes for lower costs, providing healthier drinks and side dishes, using healthier cooking methods and making healthier options easier for customers to identify and choose.

Since the scheme launched in May, several local food businesses have already expressed an interest and are currently being assessed against the scheme's criteria. Businesses that meet the scheme’s requirements receive recognition for their commitment to healthier catering. This can help customers make informed choices when buying food outside the home.

Residents are encouraged to look out for the Healthier Catering Commitment sticker displayed on the windows of participating food businesses and support those providing healthier food options.

The scheme is open to businesses such as cafés, restaurants, takeaways, sandwich shops, leisure centres and staff canteens.

Joining the Healthier Catering Commitment is free and participating businesses receive support from a Council officer throughout the process.

Food businesses can find out more or register their interest by visiting the Healthier Catering commitment in Bexley page or emailing hcc@bexley.gov.uk.