Surrey County Council has launched a campaign to encourage Surrey’s takeaways and restaurants to cut the fat and calories in their food.
The council’s trading standards team started the Eat Out Eat Well scheme, which offers three award levels based on the type of food, cooking method and how caterers promote it to their customers.
To obtain the highest gold award, members of staff also need training in nutrition.
Awards will be given to caterers who demonstrate they are committed to food hygiene, healthy choices and providing customers with information about ingredients.
The scheme is currently being piloted in Guildford, Elmbridge and Spelthorne and will eventually cover Surrey’s 721 restaurants and takeaways.
Councillor Kay Hammond said: “We all like to eat out or grab a takeaway and this scheme is not about being a nanny state, but about giving consumers more choice, and the ability to have healthier options.
“Our scheme will allow consumers to see that there are the choices there should they want them.”
The Department of Health in the south-east has pledged £15,000 to the council’s campaign to provide outlets with advice on health and nutrition.
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