Supermarkets forced to use one health information label on foods to fight against obesity

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Supermarkets will be forced to use the same food labelling scheme to make it easier for consumers to know which options are the healthiest.

They currently use three different schemes, such as a traffic light system or labels that show the percentage of the recommended daily intake of fat, salt and sugar.

The Food Standards Agency is monitoring the systems and will make its recommendations later in the year.

Health Secretary Alan Johnson said he would consider legislation if the food industry did not back the idea of a single system for labelling.

He said: "We know that clear, simple, front-of-pack labelling helps consumers make healthier choices, which is essential if we are to turn the tide on rising levels of obesity."

Mr Johnson said he would also be bringing out a "healthy food code of good practice", produced in partnership with the food and drink industry.

It would challenge restaurants and food producers to support individuals and families reduce their consumption of fat, salt and sugar.