The government has given itself an additional two years to delay plans to outlaw two-for-one junk food specials.
Multibuy deals for fatty, salty, or sugary foods and beverages would not have been permitted in stores.
Restricting choices while food prices are still high, according to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, would be unfair. .
The policy, which is a component of an anti-obesity strategy, was already delayed until this October. While a review is conducted, it has now been postponed until 2025.
Detractors of the length of time it is taking to outlaw the deals, including health campaigners, are likely to be disappointed by the delay.
"I firmly believe in people's right to choose, and at a time when household budgets are still being squeezed by the global increase in food prices, it is not fair for government to limit the options available to consumers on their weekly shop," said Mr. Sunak.
"It is appropriate that we carefully consider the effects on customers and businesses while making sure we're striking a balance with our significant mission to reduce obesity and support people in leading healthier lives. ".
The policy will not go into effect until October 2025, according to Downing Street, while the government assesses how it will affect consumers and businesses.
Due to the "unprecedented global economic situation," the ban was previously postponed under Prime Minister Boris Johnson in May of last year.
The Department of Health explained that evidence indicated the promotions were successful at influencing purchases, particularly for kids, in a guidance document updated this month.
Large and medium-sized retailers would be subject to the rule, and they would not be allowed to run specials like buy one get one free or three for the price of two.
Crisps, sweets, and prepared meals are among the foods listed in the document.
The free refilling of drinks after the first drink has been consumed in full or in part would also be prohibited by restaurants.
Conservative Commons lawmakers had criticized the policy. Philip Davies, a Shipley MP, criticized the policy as "utterly bonkers," "idiotic," and "nannystate.".
The ban, according to Buckingham MP Greg Smith, is "catastrophic for people's food bills.".
The second-leading cause of cancer and a £6.85 billion annual expense to the NHS, according to Health Secretary Steve Barclay, is obesity.
He emphasized the start of experimental programs for the newest anti-obesity medications.
Jamie Oliver staged a protest outside Downing Street after Barbara Crowther, coordinator of the Children's Food Campaign, announced the organization was "disappointed" about the ban's prior postponement.
