The UK, while struggling with widespread obesity and lack of exercise, has seen a steady growth of interest in healthy living during recent years Sugar and soft drinks are focal points in the health debate, with the biggest concern being the well-being of children Government policies, penetration of healthier lifestyles, and increased interest in fitness contribute to positive trends in the country.
1. SUGAR (Soft drinks)
According to Statista, consumption of soft drinks between 2007-2015 has fluctuated between 105.7 liters and 110.5 liters per capita. The lowest point was 105.7 liters in 2007, while consumption peaked in 2011, with 110.5 liters. Data for 2015 shows consumption levels only slightly higher than those of 2007, with 106.6 liters per capita.
2. SNACKS
Research from 2015 by Mintel suggests that "UK consumers have cut down on consumption of all snacks over the past year." Data snippets of consumption metrics from the study:
- Chocolate: down to 59% from 68% of consumers
- Crisps: down to 57% form 67% of consumers
- Sweets: down to 29% from 40% of consumers
- Cakes and baked products: down to 39% from 51% of consumers
3. VEGANS & VEGETARIANS
The number of vegans in Britain has risen by more than 360 percent over the past decade, according to a new survey that shows record numbers of people are avoiding food derived from animals."
EXERCISE
1. CHILDHOOD OBESITY
In 2016, The Telegraph cited research by the International Congress on Physical Activity and Public Health, concluding that "overall, England and Wales were both scored D minus, the third worst grade in the rankings, while Scotland was joint worst, with a grade of F.The rankings [...] show the UK lagging far behind a host of countries, including Poland, Slovenia, and Venezuela, when it comes to children’s fitness."
2. GENERAL EXERCISE
There was a study by Sport England we found particularly useful during our research. The study was in-depth, dividing results by age, socioeconomic status, gender, disability, type of activity, etc. A few key insights: 25.6% of people were considered inactive or did less than 30 minutes of activity a week
3. FITNESS INDUSTRY
An interesting secondary data point we found was the state of the UK fitness industry, which has seen growth in recent years. According to LeisureDB, "there are now 6,435 fitness facilities in the UK, up from 6,312 last year.
