National Chip Week sparks health outcry

Health professionals have criticised restaurants in Britain for serving too many fatty chips.

Their accusation came as Britain celebrates National Chip Week, which runs until Sunday and is organised by the British Potato Council.

The week's aim, said a spokeswoman, is to "make people eat more chips and ultimately to increase the sale and consumption of chips".

A spokesman for the British Heart Foundation said too many restaurateurs already use too many chips. "It would be very welcome if restaurants started telling customers they can have other types of vegetables, instead of chips. Many do, but it's certainly not enough."

Wendy Doyle, at the British Dietetic Association, added: "At home you can choose oven chips but in restaurants you get what you are given.

"Restaurants should try using thick chips which absorb less fat."

David Williams, chief executive of London-based restaurant chain Groupe Chez Gérard, said: "Chips are a huge part of our business and anything, if eaten in moderation, is OK."

by Louise Bozec