Other VLCD companies are saying the vat increase doesn't apply to shakes/soups etc. Only to bars which are classed differently. I know Exante and LT have said this and im sure CD have too. I'd be tempted to query why LL are saying it costs more
" we operate a Weight Loss Store where we provide meal replacement products that replace conventional zero rated foods for weight loss and our products include shakes, soups & bars and have to date not charged our clients any VAT on these products as we do not get charged VAT from the manufacturer and also no other meal replacement company similar to us, ie Lighterlife, Cambridge Diet, Lipotrim, etc charge VAT for their food products sold .
We were recently visited by the HMRC who now state that all Meal Replacement Bars that include any added glucose, fruit or are covered in chocolate (which basically means all Meal Replacement Bars from us and other companies already mentioned and more) are a confectionary product and are therefore should be standard rated vat at 17.5% / 20%
Have just had a look around and ALL the big VLCD companies are confirming the packs are VAT exempt so the increase wont affect them....