Calorie information needs to be made more aware of so people know what they're eating
We're facing a national obesity epidemic and according to Which? the government haven't done enough to curb the rising numbers.
They explained in a new report that attempts to tackle the 'emergency' have been 'inadequate' so far.
An investigation by the consumer group found that many of the major firms had not yet signed up to the government's responsibility deal. The voluntary initiative was launched a year ago to encourage moves such as reducing salt and trans-fats in food, and improving information.
The watchdog's analysis found that only two of the top 10 restuarants and pub groups - Harvester and Wetherspoon - have so far agreed to provide calorie information for their meals.
The finding have led to renewed calls for legislation to replace 'doomed' voluntary schemes.
While 'some good progress' has been made on companies comitting to reduce salt in their food, many big brands like Iceland, Findus, Princes and Birds Eye have yet to make the pledge.
Which? executive director Richard Lloyd said: "We have the worst obesity rates in Europe and diet-related diseases, like heart disease and stroke, are blighting the public's health. Our audit of progress made under the government's Responsibility Deal has shown the current approach is overly reliant on vague voluntary promises by the food industry. This has so far failed to bring about change on anything like the scale needed.
"The government relies too much on voluntary deals with industry rather than showing real leadership. If food companies don't agree to help people eat more healthily, then we must see legislation to force them to do so for the sake of the health of the nation."