Healthier chips are on their way

Public protection officer Clare McNicol and Mr Chips give the scheme the official thumbs up

A healthier chips scheme has been launched across the borough.

The project will see takeaways are to introduce better frying practices, which will reduce the amount of saturated fat in their chips.

Small changes to the way chips are prepared, such as banging the chip basket to get rid of excess oil, frying at a different temperature and using different oil can all make a difference to the levels of saturated fat – a key cause of heart disease.

Rochdale Council Public protection officers are telling the takeaways about the scheme, which will see them work towards bronze, silver or gold awards according to how many changes they make.

Businesses will be regularly checked to ensure the changes are being implemented before being given the award.

Takeaways who make the grade will then display posters and window stickers to let their customers know they are taking part in the scheme, as well as a bronze, silver or gold certificate.

Colin Lambert, Lead Member for Health at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “Chips are clearly not a healthy food, but it’s a fact of life that they will always be a part of people’s diet. By working with local businesses to reduce the amount of fat in chips we can make a big difference to the health of our residents.

“When people are looking for a takeaway, I’d advise them to look out for the healthier chip shop posters and take the healthier option.”

The scheme will be rolled out over the next three months.