Nando’s Implements Restrictions on Coca-Cola Classic Refills Following Government Regulations
As of Monday, October 6th, 2025, Nando’s has implemented new restrictions on their popular Coca-Cola Classic refills. This decision comes as a response to government regulations aimed at reducing sugar consumption.
Previously known for its unlimited soft drink refills, Nando’s has now limited customers to one glass of Coca-Cola Classic per visit. However, zero-sugar alternatives such as Sprite Zero and Fanta Zero will remain available for unlimited refills.
The change is displayed on updated notices on Nando’s drinks machines, informing customers that the new policy is in accordance with new legal requirements. The message reads: “Want Coca-Cola Classic? It’s one glass only. Based on new government laws, we’ve had to limit Coca-Cola Classic to one glass per customer. Still thirsty? Help yourself to one of our low-sugar fizzy bottomless soft drinks.”
The announcement has sparked complaints on social media, with some users criticizing the restrictions as a “nanny state” approach and others calling it “a joke.”
Similar policies have been reported by other restaurant chains, including Five Guys, Toby Carvery, Harvester, Pizza Hut, and Burger King.
These changes come as a result of new anti-obesity rules banning free refills of sugary drinks and “buy one, get one free” promotions on foods high in fat, sugar, or salt. These measures build upon previous government efforts, which began in 2021 under then-Health Secretary Matt Hancock.
According to a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care, “Obesity robs children of the best possible start in life, sets them up for a lifetime of health problems, and costs the NHS billions.”
Health experts have shown support for these new rules, arguing that limiting access to sugary drinks and foods can help reduce over-consumption. Research from the University of Leeds has found that implementing restrictions on unhealthy items at checkouts and aisle ends in supermarkets has resulted in a reduction of sales by approximately two million items per day.
Further measures are expected to be introduced next year, including a ban on online promotions of unhealthy food and a pre-9pm watershed on junk food advertising.
Government data reveals that more than a quarter of adults and one in five Year Six pupils in England are classified as obese. The UK economy is estimated to lose around £74 billion annually due to weight-related illnesses, with obesity being linked to conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.
These restrictions mirror previous initiatives, such as the 2018 Soft Drinks Industry Levy, which taxed beverages containing over 5g of sugar per 100ml. As a result, many brands have reduced sugar content, though Coca-Cola has maintained its original recipe and absorbed the cost of the levy.
Wales is set to adopt similar rules next year, with Scotland expected to follow suit.
Nando’s and the other mentioned restaurant chains have been contacted for comment.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.