"The UK is in an obesity crisis, costing the NHS billions each year."
PizzaExpress has been crowned the unhealthiest restaurant chain in the UK, according to new nutrition data that highlights how one meal can derail daily calorie allowances.
The study, conducted by Chemist4U’s weight loss experts, examined meal compositions across leading chains to determine how much they exceed an adult’s daily reference intake.
Each restaurant was then given an “Excess Score” to measure the potential health impact.
PizzaExpress scored an alarming 92 out of 100, with an average meal containing 1,445 calories.
That equates to 72.3% of a diner’s daily recommended calorie allowance, without accounting for drinks or desserts.
Pizza restaurants dominate the unhealthy rankings, with PizzaExpress, Prezzo and Pizza Hut all appearing in the top five.
A single meal from these chains accounts for more than 80% of the nutrients a person should consume in one day.
Other high-ranking chains included Zizzi, with an excess score of 64, and Wagamama, with 59.
Despite being considered healthier choices, a typical meal still exceeds 60% of daily nutrient needs, often containing over 1,000 calories.
In contrast, fast-food giants McDonald’s, Burger King and KFC were placed lower in the rankings.
Their smaller portions and wider low-calorie menus meant meals exceeded daily nutrient intake by just 12.7%, 2.9% and 6.6% respectively.
The findings arrive as the UK faces an obesity crisis, with 38% of adults overweight and 26% living with obesity.
The government’s “healthy food revolution” aims to tackle this by encouraging businesses to promote healthier eating.
Jason Murphy, Head of Pharmacy and weight loss injection expert at Chemist4U, explained the wider health implications.
He warned that frequently consuming calorie-dense, processed meals can impact long-term weight management, heart health and energy levels.
He emphasised that small dietary swaps, such as choosing grilled over fried options or drinking water instead of fizzy drinks, can make a meaningful difference to everyday health.
Murphy also highlighted the transformative potential of GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro.
These medications act on the brain’s appetite control centres, suppressing hunger and slowing digestion while lowering blood sugar and inflammation.
According to Murphy, patients using these drugs often report a reduction in “food noise” and less desire for calorie-heavy fast foods, helping them overcome unhealthy urges more effectively.
With pizza chains dominating the top of the unhealthy list, the findings reinforce how hidden calories in popular dining spots continue to challenge public health goals in the UK.
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