How saying no to the ‘go large’ offers can prevent you upsizing

‘Do you need an extra side?’

SCOTS are been told to ‘say no’ to going large when eating out to avoid an upsized waistline.

A campaign by Scotland’s food watchdog is warning against buying meal deals or adding sides and extras – known as upsizing.

The health drive has been launched by Food Standards Scotland after a survey found a quarter of Scots regularly ‘go large’ when eating out.

Upsizing can cause people to eat and drink unnecessary extra calories, sugar and fat, in many cases without even thinking about it.

Some outlets offer extras at the till while others have meal deals on their menus that are laden with extra calories.

A third of women and a quarter of men who eat out think they are encouraged to upsize too often. Around half of all Scots who have ever upsized do not think about the additional calories that result from this.

Elspeth Macdonald of Food Standards Scotland said: ‘It may seem like a good deal, but do you need a larger sugary drink or an extra side?

‘These deals are often for unhealthier foods and drinks providing unnecessary extra calories that could contribute to weight gain, obesity and lead to potential health problems.

‘Obesity remains one of Scotland’s biggest health concerns. Saying no to upsizing could be a positive step towards improving the Scottish diet.’

Food Standards Scotland surveyed around 1,000 Scots adults. The agency said that what can seem like a small addition or ‘good value for money’, can have a wider health impact.

Two-thirds of adults in Scotland are overweight or obese.

A Scottish Government spokesman said: ‘Our draft delivery plan includes worldleading proposals to tackle junk food promotions and the marketing of unhealthy food.’