The Deli explained how they sought advice that "was very helpful in providing alternatives to some of our practices to improve on the work we had already done on sustainability, limiting plastic usage, healthier eating option etc. I'd highly recommend any catering business to go through the programme as a way of improving their ways of working."

The Hertfordshire Responsible Food Award is a quality-mark that any local business serving food can apply for, to demonstrate that they are promoting healthier eating habits and reducing the environmental impact of their business.

Hertfordshire County Council's Executive Member for Public Health and Community Safety, Cllr Ajanta Hilton, said: "This scheme is all about helping customers to make healthier food choices.

"It is great to see that Hertfordshire is in step with the recent Government announcement of its 10 year health plan to help tackle the obesity epidemic, which encourages businesses to make the healthy food choice the easy choice for consumers.  

"There are worryingly high numbers of people in Hertfordshire living with excess weight and obesity. Obesity can increase our chances of developing health problems, such as diabetes, cancers, heart disease, and back and joint pain.  

"The Herts Responsible Food Award helps food businesses to adopt simple changes which can have a big impact, such as switching to healthier cooking oils, reducing sugar and salt content, and recycling food waste. I'd encourage all local cafes, restaurants, takeaways and other eateries to join the scheme to support local health and the environment." 

Three levels of award are available – standard, silver and gold. Qualifying businesses will display the relevant sticker in their window.

You can find out which other businesses have achieved an award at www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/hrfa

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