Levels of obesity are rising in Wales – 60% of adults are overweight or obese, and nearly a quarter of children are overweight or obese by the time they start school.
The regulations place new restrictions on how foods high in fat, sugar and salt are promoted and displayed in shops and other retail settings.
They apply to medium and large businesses with 50 or more employees and are designed to reduce the prominence of less healthy options, including at checkouts, store entrances and through multibuy offers.
Jeremy Miles, cabinet secretary for health and social care, said: ‘As of today, it will be easier to make healthier choices on the go and during our weekly shops.
‘We know that parents want the best for their children and to help them form healthy habits and give them a fair start in life.
‘By ensuring that foods high in fat, sugar and salt are no longer given prominence over healthier choices, we are taking important steps to support everyone make healthier choices and to improve public health.'
In the 12 months since the regulations were approved by the Senedd, the Welsh Government has published guidance to support businesses and local authorities implementing the changes, which mirror similar measures already in place in England.
Reaction
Professor Jim McManus, national director of health and wellbeing at Public Health Wales, said: ‘Creating a healthier food environment for people in Wales is vital for all of us.
‘We look forward to seeing the positive impact these regulations will have on the choices people make and, in turn, on the nation's health.'
Dr Ilona Johnson, interim co-director of Health Improvement at Public Health Wales, said: ‘This is a step in the right direction. People across Wales want to be a healthy weight, yet many feel their everyday environment makes choosing healthier options more difficult.
‘Foods high in fat, sugar and salt are often placed prominently in stores and promoted in ways that encourage impulse purchases and higher consumption.
‘There is good evidence showing that policies targeting the food environment are effective at helping people make healthier choices.'
