A full list of UK’s most unhealthiest towns, based on the number of takeaway shops, has been released.
Coming in first, Camden in north London has been identified as the town with the highest number of fast food outlets per capita in England, overtaking Bury in Greater Manchester.
Data from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) for 2024 shows that Camden boasts approximately 417 fast food outlets for every 100,000 residents, more than double the total recorded in 2017.
Following Camden, Westminster ranks second with 248 outlets, while Blackpool and Southwark take third and fourth places, respectively.
Manchester rounds out the top five. Notably, Hackney has witnessed a significant surge in fast food outlets, increasing by over a third to 166, moving from 58th to ninth place.
Liverpool also entered the top 10, with 175 outlets per 100,000 individuals. In contrast, Bury, which held the top spot in the previous survey with 256 outlets, has fallen to 10th place.
Meanwhile, Wokingham in Berkshire retains the title for the fewest fast food outlets, reporting only 39. Hartlepool and Darlington also showed notable declines, with 138 and 145 outlets, respectively.
The analysis encompasses a range of food stores, including those serving burgers, pizzas, kebabs, chicken dishes, Indian and Chinese takeaways, and fish and chips.
As highlighted by the maps, the findings show that the 10 spots are concentrated in two major regions: London and North-west England.
Katharine Jenner, director of Obesity Health Alliance, expressed her frustration with the results, criticizing fast food companies for “eroding healthy eating opportunities.”
In response, a Camden Council spokesperson defended the area’s reputation as a “world-famous tourist hotspot,” noting that many visitors opt for convenient food options before or after nightlife activities.
The council emphasized its commitment to promoting healthy eating through community projects and food initiatives.