Obesity in Children Increases, UK Bans Fast Food Ads

LONDON - British authorities began early last month to impose a national ban on fast food advertising on television and online, as part of the government's efforts to address the increasing obesity in children.

Under the new rules, foods and drinks classified as high in fat, salt and sugar (HFSS) cannot be advertised on TV before 9pm local time or promoted through paid online advertising at any time.

"Children will be protected from excessive exposure to unhealthy food advertisements on television and online," the Ministry of Health said in a statement, as reported by Anadolu (13/2).

The department said the regulations are expected to reduce the number of children suffering from obesity by 20,000 and provide health benefits of around £2 billion over time.

According to official figures, 22.1 per cent of children in England were overweight or obese at the start of primary school, rising to 35.8 per cent by the time they left.

Public Health Minister Ashley Dalton said restrictions on fast food advertising before 9pm and a ban on paid online advertising would reduce excessive exposure to unhealthy foods and help make healthier choices easier for parents and children.

Meanwhile, Obesity Health Alliance Executive Director Katharine Jenner welcomed the move, saying children would finally be protected from "most damaging" fast food advertising.

Meanwhile, Diabetes UK Chief Executive Colette Marshall said the need to improve children's health "has never been greater," as type 2 diabetes continues to rise among young people.

"Obesity is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes, and this condition can lead to more severe consequences in young people, putting them at risk of serious complications such as kidney failure and heart disease," he said.