Hundreds of cafes, restaurants and sandwich shops have been invited to pick healthy options in favour of fatty alternatives by Croydon Council.

Letters have been sent to almost 500 food outlets across the borough inviting them to the council’s new healthy catering scheme following a series of high-profile food campaigns from celebrities such as chef Jamie Oliver.

The letters invite traders to look at their menus and confirm they meet the eight criteria established for receiving an award.

As well as salt content, saturated fats and fattiness of milk, businesses have to look at whether they offer wholemeal breads, fresh fruit, diet drinks and sweeteners and whether they have a children’s menu.

Clear labelling must also be used to tell customers which foods have the healthiest ingredients.

Councillor Steve O’Connell, cabinet member for community safety, said: “Our food team are not just concerned with making sure that food preparation meets the appropriate safety standards - they are also keen to see that the dishes being served up are going to be good for people’s overall level of health.

“Healthy food doesn’t have to be bland - with a little thought it can be just as exciting and tasty.”