Nando’s has stopped offering its famous bottomless Coca-Cola Classic following new government restrictions on free refills of sugar-sweetened beverages. And fizzy pop lovers are up in arms
High street favourite Nando’s has implemented a new policy for Coke enthusiasts – and it’s left some diners rather disgruntled. This shock restriction has been brought in following changes to the Government guidelines on sugary drinks.
Consequently, the beloved restaurant chain has been forced to halt its offer of unlimited refills of regular Coca-Cola. A photograph shared online revealed a notice affixed to the top of a drinks dispenser at one of the establishments.
The sign stated: “Want Coca-Cola Classic? It’s one glass only. Based on new government laws, we’ve had to limit Coca-Cola Classic to one glass per customer.” It continued: “Still thirsty? Help yourself to any of our low-sugar fizzy Bottomless Soft Drinks.”
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This development coincides with research suggesting that individuals with excessive abdominal fat may face heightened dementia risks, reports Chronicle Live.
Concerning Nando’s policy alteration, numerous patrons have flocked to social media to voice their opinions. Luke Ramsden, who shared the image on X, questioned: “Wt* is this country?”. Another diner uploaded a TikTok clip showing himself securing a second Coke. He remarked, “I hope I don’t get arrested for this.”
He continued: “Imagine that. Imagine a fully-grown adult not being able to make their own decisions as to what kind of drink they’re allowed. I mean, you know, what is this? Are we in North Korea? Where are we?” He then had a taste and declared, “I can hear the police sirens outside; they’re coming to get me. They’re gonna take me away.” The TikToker also highlighted that there are no restrictions on ice cream.
The Government clarifies on its website that “restrictions apply to free refills of sugar-sweetened beverages” and those classified as less healthy within any qualifying establishment, including eateries. It states: “Businesses in scope of regulations must not offer a free refill promotion on drinks in scope of regulations.”
Beverages exempt from these rules include those containing more than 1.2 per cent alcohol, plain water, and other drinks without added sugar. The Government further explains: “A ‘free refill promotion’ means a promotion that offers the consumer the same drink or another drink to which this regulation applies (including free top-ups of any part of such a drink) for free after consumption of all or part of a first drink.
“Consumer-operated drinks machines are in scope of these restrictions if they offer free refills and are placed within a qualifying business – for example, coffee machines within a convenience store or a forecourt offering sweetened coffee.”
A Government spokesperson commented: “Obesity robs children of the best possible start in life, sets them up for a lifetime of health problems and costs the NHS billions. The end of promotions such as buy one get one free on unhealthy foods was first proposed by the previous government in 2020 and came into force this week.”
The Mirror has reached out to Nando’s for comment.
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