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Walkers says it is planning to make more than half its snacks low-calorie or healthy within the next three years.

The Wotsits, Quavers, Monster Munch, Pipers and Walkers Crisps manufacturer said it was stepping up its healthy options in the light of new regulations on junk food.

It plans to spend £35 million over the next three years on a programme reformulating some of its existing range and bringing new healthier products to the market.

The business, which has its head office in Reading, has factories around the º£½ÇÊÓƵ including major operations in Leicester and North Lincolnshire.

Last month, Walkers launched its first crisps that are not considered high in fat, sugar or salt – or HFSS – by Government standards.

It is going to launch other products similar to the Walkers 45 per cent less salt range and change its Walkers Baked, Doritos Dippers and Popworks products so they are considered non-HFSS.

New rules in October will restrict advertising and promotional deals, such as buy-one-get-one-free, on HFSS classified foods.

Walkers said further innovation is planned for next year as well as significant advertising and marketing investment to encourage customers to make healthier choices.