A NEW fish and chip shop has been told to sell fruit and veg by NHS bosses if it wants to open. Objections to a takeaway trading in Morfa Bychan, Gwynedd, have been raised by the local health board in a bid to stop the locals from getting fat. Heads at Betsi Calwaladr health board want less sugar , fat and salt on the menu, fearing a rise in fast food outlets in the area would be “detrimental” to the health of residents.
The board has complained the food being pushed meets the needs of holidaymakers rather than the locals as it is in a prime location. It also claimed that if more unhealthy food was easily available, It would increase the chances of the local population becoming overweight. The board said in a document seen by the BBC : “This is of particular concern for local permanent residents where this food is available throughout the year and not just during holiday periods.
Read more on Health “Increased access to unhealthy food retail outlets can be associated with increased weight status in the general population and increased obesity and unhealthy eating behaviours among children residing in low-income areas. “While we appreciate this is only one extra takeaway unit, this would still be one additional takeaway than what is currently available.” Porthmadog Town Council has also raised issues against the proposed chippie, saying the scheme was an “over-development” whilst also raising concerns about there being “too many businesses in a small area”.
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