Nando’s Implements New Restrictions on Coca-Cola Classic as Government Takes Aim at Sugar Consumption
Nando’s, the popular restaurant chain known for its unlimited soft drink refills, has announced new restrictions on Coca-Cola Classic in response to government regulations aimed at reducing sugar consumption. Effective immediately, customers will only be able to enjoy one glass of Coca-Cola Classic per visit, while zero-sugar alternatives such as Sprite Zero and Fanta Zero will still be available for unlimited refills.
According to updated notices posted on Nando’s drink machines, the change is a result of new legal requirements set forth by the government. The message reads: “Want Coca-Cola Classic? It’s one glass only. Based on new government laws, we’ve had to limit Coca-Cola Classic to one glass per customer. Still thirsty? Help yourself to one of our low-sugar fizzy bottomless soft drinks.”
While the move has been met with complaints on social media, with some users criticizing what they see as “nanny state” restrictions and others calling it “a joke,” similar policies have been reported at other restaurant chains such as Five Guys, Toby Carvery, Harvester, Pizza Hut, and Burger King.
These changes come in response to new anti-obesity rules that ban free refills of sugary drinks and “buy one, get one free” promotions on high-fat, sugar, or salt foods. These measures build upon previous efforts by the government, which began in 2021 under then-Health Secretary Matt Hancock.
A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care stated, “Obesity robs children of the best possible start in life, sets them up for a lifetime of health problems, and costs the NHS billions.” Health experts have also shown support for the new rules, arguing that limiting access to sugary drinks and foods can reduce over-consumption. A study conducted by the University of Leeds found that restrictions on unhealthy items at supermarket checkouts and aisle ends resulted in a daily reduction of two million items sold.
Further measures are expected to be implemented next year, including a ban on online promotions of unhealthy food and a pre-9pm watershed on junk food advertising. Data from the government shows that more than a quarter of adults and one in five Year Six pupils in England are classified as obese. This puts a strain on the UK economy, costing around £74 billion annually, with obesity being linked to various health conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.
These restrictions mirror previous initiatives, such as the 2018 Soft Drinks Industry Levy, which taxed beverages containing more than 5g of sugar per 100ml. This policy encouraged many brands to reduce their sugar content, although Coca-Cola chose to maintain its original recipe and absorb the cost of the levy.
Wales is set to adopt similar rules next year, with Scotland expected to follow suit. Nando’s and other mentioned restaurant chains have been contacted for comment.
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