New research by youth activist charity Bite Back, in partnership with the University of Cambridge, reveals that Big Food chains are rapidly expanding near schools across Great Britain, surrounding children with unhealthy food options at an alarming rate.

Launched today, the report entitled Big Food & Our Communities: Where are food chains expanding?, exposes Big Food’s overwhelming reach into young people’s lives. The findings reveal a staggering 59% increase in major food outlets since 2014, with particularly concerning growth near schools.

According to the study, nearly 3,500 schools in Great Britain now have a major food outlet within 400 metres—1,000 more schools than in 2014. More than half of outlets for Domino's (76%), Subway (58%), and Greggs (56%) are located close to schools, highlighting the growing presence of unhealthy food options near educational environments.

Bite Back activist Mia (17) from Enfield North, said: "My school is in the centre of town, and McDonald’s is right in the back garden, 30 seconds from my school. Younger students go there after school because it’s so convenient and cheap. They’ve built this image that they’re open to students and it’s an attractive space to hang out. And being in the centre of town, it attracts students from all the schools in the area. It has become something cultural."

placeholder image — Bite Back activist, Mia.

According to Bite Back studies, fast food outlets in North Enfield have grown by 12.5% over the past decade, reflecting a steady increase in the area.

“From today, anyone can use Bite Back’s postcode tool on our website to see how fast food chains have surrounded their home or school. It’s easy to use, and in just a few steps, you can share your story and more importantly, email your MP to demand they take action to protect young people’s health,” she added.

A huge concern for activists and health experts is how fast food now makes up a significant proportion of the out-of-home food market, heavily influencing young people and contributing to the prevalence of unhealthy options in their daily lives.

Another Bite Back activist Timandra(17) from Ilford, said: "There’s no escape from junk food ads. I see them on the way to school, on my phone, and even at the bus stop. It feels like we’re being targeted all the time, and it’s overwhelming.

Location is everything, and fast food chains know it. From today, visitors to the Bite Back website can use the charity’s nifty postcode tool to see how fast food chains have grown near their home or school. In just a few quick steps, they can email their MP directly to demand action for healthier food environments.

James Toop, CEO of Bite Back, added: “This year alone, Bite Back has published three reports on the troubling influence of major food manufacturers. The new study goes further - showing how fast food is not only dominating the out-of-home market but is deeply embedded in young people’s lives – especially in the most deprived areas. We’re calling on the Government and Big Food to take immediate action to prioritise young people’s health over profit. Together, we can ensure the next generation has a fair chance at a healthier future.”