Brent Council has stepped up the fight against childhood obesity by undertaking mystery shopper visits to 23 takeaways that are located close to secondary schools in the borough.
At each school the mystery shoppers bought a portion of chips and weighed the portion.
Calorie, fat and salt levels were analysed, while frying practices, chip cut, additional salt, oil type and packaging were also observed.
During their investigation, they found that 19 out of the 23 takeaways served a portion of chips with more than 500 calories, with four larger than 1,000 calories - 50% of an adult’s recommended daily intake (RI).
They also found that four fast foot shops salted the chips without asking the customer first and handed over more sachets of salt with the food.
Of all the outlets observed, only one effectively implemented the ‘shake, tap, hang’ technique to remove excess oil.
Four outlets served chips containing trans fats - deemed no longer safe for human consumption in the US - with one portion sold containing three times an adult’s maximum recommended intake.
Childhood obesity a growing issue
Easy access to fast food, large portion sizes and foods that are high in fat are all contributors to obesity, a problem that’s become a growing concern in the UK.
Childhood obesity is a particular concern in Brent with 24% of Year 6 students classified as obese, compared to the UK average of 19%.
Cllr Krupesh Hirani, cabinet member for community wellbeing, said: "A large survey of secondary school students’ takeaway habits in Brent found that two out of three students buy a soft drink with their takeaways, adding even more empty calories to their day.
"The results from the study are cause for concern however we want to work with the fast food outlets in Brent in a bid to get them preparing, cooking and promoting their food with a healthier customer in mind.
"The study did however highlight the commitment shown by takeaways who have achieved the Healthier Catering Commitment award. On average portion sizes were smaller, contained less calories and saturated fat, and did not contain trans fats.
"Food businesses who adopt the scheme display the Healthier Catering Commitment logo on their business windows, doors or walls. So look out for this sign when you are next visiting a fast food outlet or café in your area and if you can’t see it – ask them why!
"The council is also working towards implementing exclusion zones around schools, which will deny new planning applications for takeaways to avoid further saturation."
