The UK government has announced plans to introduce a new junk food advertising ban aimed at curbing childhood obesity. The legislation, which comes into force in October 2025, will restrict paid online adverts and TV commercials before 21:00. Certain types of porridge, crumpets, breakfast cereals, fast food, soft drinks, and ready meals are classified as “less healthy” foods under the ban.
The government’s goal is to reduce childhood obesity levels and prevent thousands of cases each year. According to NHS data, almost one in 10 reception-aged children lives with obesity, while one in five suffers tooth decay by the age of five due to excess sugar consumption.
Cook Thomasina Miers welcomed the move as “bold” but noted that more needs to be done to tackle poor diets. The government’s plan aims to reduce the strain on taxpayers and prevent food-related chronic disease costs estimated at £268bn annually.
Not everyone is in favor, however. Some argue that the ban will unfairly target healthy foods like crumpets and baked goods, while others believe it won’t effectively counter childhood obesity. The government has proposed a scoring system based on sugar, fat, and protein content to classify products as “less healthy” or not subject to advertising bans.
The legislation aims to promote healthier eating habits by reducing children’s exposure to foods high in sugar, salt, and fat. Health Secretary Wes Streeting stated that the policy is the first step towards a major shift in healthcare focus from sickness to prevention.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgrwzx8er9o