LONDON, Jan 5 — The United Kingdom (UK) has implemented a nationwide ban on junk food advertising on television and online as part of government efforts to tackle rising childhood obesity.
Anadolu Ajansi reported that under the new rules, food and drink classified as high in fat, salt, and sugar (HFSS) cannot be advertised on television before 9pm local time or promoted through paid online advertising at any time.
“Children will be protected from excessive exposure to unhealthy food adverts on television and online,” the Health Department said in a statement on Monday.
The regulations are expected to reduce the number of children living with obesity by 20,000 and deliver around £2 billion (RM10.9 billion) in health benefits over time.
According to official figures, 22.1 per cent of children in England are living with overweight or obesity at the start of primary school, rising to 35.8 per cent by the time they leave.
Public Health Minister Ashley Dalton said restricting junk food advertising before 9pm and banning paid online advertisements will reduce excessive exposure to unhealthy foods and help make healthier choices easier for parents and children.
Obesity Health Alliance's executive director welcomed the move, saying children will finally be protected from the “worst offending” junk food advertisements.
Similarly, Diabetes UK's chief executive Colette Marshall said the need to improve children’s health has “never been greater”, as Type Two diabetes continues to rise among young people.
“Obesity is a major risk factor for Type Two diabetes, and the condition can lead to more severe consequences in young people, leaving them at risk of serious complications such as kidney failure and heart disease,” she said.
